Infoterra is pleased to announce the acquisition of Imass, a provider of integrated information solutions for the UK public safety, manufacturing design and utility markets.

Infoterra and Imass (headquartered in Newcastle and employing a workforce of 136) will work together as part of the Infoterra Group, within the Earth Observation Division of Astrium Services. Eric Beranger, CEO of Astrium Services, said: "This purchase reaffirms Astrium's continued investment and commitment to strengthen its geo-information services capability."

The combination of Imass's systems integration and software development expertise with Infoterra's geospatial data access, GIS consultancy experience and managed services capability, will create a powerful new capability to meet the ever-increasing demands for innovative and cost-effective geo-information solutions.

With a strong track record and excellent reputation in its core markets, Imass has a well established portfolio of solutions and services which will further strengthen the Infoterra Group's offering globally in areas such as emergency services, utilities and 3D modelling.

"We are delighted that Imass is joining Infoterra as these are exciting times for our industry," said Dave Fox, CEO of Infoterra Ltd.

"Our objective by bringing the companies together is to build on the expertise and knowledge across both teams to deliver innovative operational solutions, enabling organisations to better manage and benefit from geo-information in a changing world."

"We are all very excited about this new venture and the opportunities that will come from joining an ambitious group, which has the backing of Astrium," commented Dave Hudspith, MD of Imass Ltd.

"I'm convinced this will result in further development of our capabilities in the UK while helping us to deliver our solutions to the global market."