Oct/Nov 2006

Masternaut, the high-profile telematics and tracking systems specialist, has acquired GE Mobile Solutions, the division of GE specialising in mobile computing technology for business. It says the combined turnover of the two companies will exceed £20 million.

Until relatively recently the GE operation was known as Three-X Communication. It was found back in 1984, which makes it one of the longest-established systems suppliers in the field service and mobile worker market - something reflected in its user base of 8,000, and customer portfolio that includes Coca Cola, Siemens, Coors and ATS Euromaster. . It was taken over by GE in 1995.

Masternaut says the acquisition gives it the ability to provide the industry's most advanced and resilient mobile communications technologies, and makes it one of the only telematics companies able to offer a fully featured end-to-end solution for managing both vehicle fleets and remote personnel.

It says it plans to integrate the two companies' mobile computing technology and industry solutions, but adds that the GE business will retain its own identity, and in fact will revert to the Three-X Communication name. It will also retain its base at Skipton. Masternaut's offices are outside Leeds.