Andrew acquires Xenicom

Andrew Corp has acquired Xenicom Ltd., a privately-held UK-based developer of wireless network planning and management software.

Under terms of the acquisition, Andrew, based in Orland Park, Ill., paid about $11.5 million cash, with additional cash consideration possible if certain financial performance goals are reached over a two-year period. Xenicom generated about $11 million in sales during the year ending September 2004. Its customers include several major European mobile operators. Terry Garner, group president, Network Solutions at Andrew, said, “This enhances Andrew’s ability to deliver solutions that help our customers improve the capacity of their networks, reduce capital spending, and roll out new and upgraded infrastructure more quickly and efficiently.” He added that the deal opens new regional market opportunities for Andrew. The acquisition, which is effective immediately, should be slightly accretive to earnings during the first 12 months. As part of the transaction, Xenicom and its 55 employees—located in offices in Bristol, U.K.; Dallas, TX; and Sao Paulo, Brazil—will join Andrew’s Network Solutions group. Martin Coates, co-founder and CEO of Xenicom, said, "As part of Andrew, Xenicom broadens its global reach and capabilities in a way that is unmatched by any others.”