SAFRAN acquires Sdu-Identification

 

SAFRAN has announced the acquisition of the Netherlands-based passport and secure ID document maker Sdu-Identification.

Sdu-I had revenues of more than 90 million euros in 2007, and is regarded as a leading European supplier of secure ID documents, including ePassports, ID cards and driver licenses.

Sagem Sécurité, a SAFRAN Group subsidiary will use the acquisition to strengthen its position in the international market for ID solutions. According to SAFRAN: “With this acquisition, Sagem Sécurité offers proven expertise in the three key technologies needed for secure ID documents: biometric technologies, through its own systems and equipment; secure electronic transactions based on smart card technologies, and physical security through e-documents and secure printing technologies. This unrivaled combination of technologies and expertise will enable Sagem Sécurité to offer real complete, world-class ID solutions to governments anywhere in the world.”

“Acquiring Sdu-I is a major step forward in the development of SAFRAN’S Security business and is perfectly in line with our group’s growth strategy,” says Jean-Paul Herteman, chief executive officer of SAFRAN.

The acquisition should be completed in due course, following fulfilment of customary closing conditions, including approval by regulatory authorities.