Photo: Skygistics

[Via Satellite 04-12-2016] Orbcomm has entered a definitive agreement to acquire Skygistics, a provider of satellite and cellular connectivity, as well as telematics solutions, based outside of Johannesburg, South Africa. Skygistics has more than 250 telematics and enterprise customers, and will add distribution for Orbcomm products in some of the fastest growing markets for the Internet of Things (IoT), including South Africa and 22 other African nations.

The company is a long-time partner of SkyWave, an Orbcomm subsidiary, and a distributor of SkyWave’s satellite connectivity products. Orbcomm is also acquiring Skygistics’ subsidiaries in South Africa and Australia.

“The acquisition of Skygistics supports Orbcomm’s long-term strategy of becoming a leading global, full-service provider in the Internet of Things,” said Marc Eisenberg, chief executive officer of Orbcomm. “Adding incremental products and services to Skygistics’ infrastructure will build a stronger presence on the African continent, which is an important growing market.”

Skygistics has more than 40 employees with an established sales and distribution network throughout Africa. Orbcomm expects the transaction to close in May 2016, subject to customary closing conditions. Near Earth advised Orbcomm on this transaction.