Trimble buys Spectra

Subject to agreement Spectra Precision, the manufacturer of laser controlled levelling instruments is to be sold to Trimble Navigation for £185m ($280m).

Spectra Precision, based in Dayton, Ohio, produces laser levelling equipment including hand tools, underground pipe lasers and automatic and manual control equipment for elevation and 3D control of dozers, graders and excavators, as well as total surveying stations and software.

Founded in 1978, Trimble is generally recognised as a leader in the application of Global Positioning Systems (GPS) to construction and civil engineering, as well as to a wide variety of other markets.

Trimble was closely involved with the development of Caterpillar's Computer Aided Earthmoving System which does away with the need for setting-out pegs and allows two-way transfer of data between office and operator's cab.

Trimble's own GPS-based survey system is currently in use on the Channel Tunnel Rail Link.

There are obvious synergies between Trimble and Spectra Precision and their particular areas of expertise in positioning technology, but US takeover regulations prevent any public speculation from either of the parties.

Providing all approvals are obtained, the deal is expected to be finalised at the end of June.

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