Welch Allyn Data Collection Inc, a manufacturer of input devices used to enter barcodes and other data into a PC, has strengthened its offering by acquiring Hand Held Products Inc, which makes rugged handheld computers for the transport and delivery industries. Although both companies are privately-owned, the combined firm, Hand Held Products Inc (A Welch Allyn Affiliate), begins trading on January 1 2000 and is thought to have revenue of around $110m.
The acquisition of Charlotte, North Carolina-based Hand Held seems a straightforward addition of technology, geographic footprint and vertical sector. Welch Allyn, headquartered in Skaneateles Falls, New York, will bring regional strength in South African and UK markets to complement Hand Held’s position in France. Hand Held’s experience in postal and package delivery will dovetail with Welch Allyn’s user base in the postal administration sector as well as adding to Welch’s interests in medical and retail markets.
