In a further attempt to decrease the company’s dependence on heavy engineering, Dowty Group Plc has acquired multiplexer and modem designer and manufacturer Mayze Systems Ltd, to form the basis of a new central marketing and development unit for its Information Technology division. Swindon, Wiltshire-based Mayze Systems was founded 18 months ago by Bob Jones, former managing director of Dowty Information Syst ems. Dowty’s Case Group acquisition paid UKP800,000 for a 30% share of the company back in October 1987 (CI No 795), and consideration for the remaining share capital – payable in existing Dowty shares – will be between UKP2.6m and UKP6.1m, depending on profit performance, new product development and sales lev els. Mayze is forecasting a turnover of around UKP5m in the year ending March 1989, and is very prof itable, claims Dowty. It will operate as an inde pendent company within Dowty’s Information Technology division, based in nearby Chippenham, Wiltshire until April 1, then begin its marketing and development role. Dowty says the purchase was made to achieve faster and more efficient new product development, foster greater business in network management, and enable the company to attack niche markets, particu larly with Mayze’s V32 non-stop modem. Dowty’s move marks a long term strategic move from away its engineering base; its Information Technology Divis ion, now two years old, has a turnover of UKP46m, 26% of the group’s turnover and the company is seriously considering the closure of its mining division.
