Analytik Jena Strengthens Software Division with Corporate Acquisition

Jena, January 10, 2011 − Analytik Jena subsidiary AJ Blomesystem GmbH, which specializes in laboratory information management systems (LIMS), has taken acquired 55.0% of the shares in the Hamburg software company comicon GmbH. In particular, comicon develops special software modules in the field of lipid chemistry for laboratory use to supplement the range of products offered by AJ Blomesystem. The company has been on the market for many years and has many well-known customers. Thus, Analytik Jena is expanding its comprehensive customer and product portfolio in the Laboratory Software division and is gaining an internationally recognized location in the north of Germany with good customer proximity in Hamburg.

"In comicon, we are integrating a company into the Group that is excellently positioned in the field of lipid chemistry and food analysis and has a sound international customer base. We are opening up new market segments for Analytik Jena in the food industry here," said Klaus Berka, CEO of Analytik Jena AG. "We expect a further strengthening of AJ Blomesystem’s business from the integration of comicon into our analysis software area of expertise. The acquisition will enable the customers of both companies to benefit from an extended range of software products."

comicon was founded in 1995 by chemist Dr. Hans Cullmann, who remains a minority shareholder of the company with 45.0% of the shares. The specialist software company, which will continue to operate as an independent entity and brand, is being fully consolidated in the Analytik Jena Group. comicon currently employs three members of staff and its headcount is set to be gradually increased with further software programmers.

"Bundling the product portfolios of comicon and Blomesystem gives both companies’ customers a broader range of laboratory software. With an internationally established brand such as Analytik Jena, comicon will be able to pursue its growth targets and the further expansion of its business considerably more effectively," said Lothar Korn, Managing Director of AJ Blomesystem GmbH and now also of comicon GmbH.

At InterLabTec 2011 from March 24-25 in Munich, Analytik Jena will for the first time present itself at a leading food analysis trade fair as a Group with a broad portfolio.