Acer announced today that it plans to purchase Gateway, Inc. in a move that could make it the third largest PC maker in the world. According to a press release on Acer's web site both companies have agreed to the acquisition in which Acer will pay $1.90 per outstanding share. Gateway is the fourth largest US PC builder and a major computer retailer. According to Acer, the agreement will create a multi-branded computer company with annual revenue of more then $15 billion.
“The acquisition of Gateway and its strong brand immediately completes Acer’s global footprint, by strengthening our US presence" said J.T. Wang, Chairman of Acer. "This will be an excellent addition to Acer’s already strong positions in Europe and Asia. Upon acquiring Gateway, we will further solidify our position as number three PC vendor globally.”
Ed Coleman, CEO of Gateway said “Joining with Acer will enable us to bring even more value to the consumer segments we serve and capitalize on Acer’s highly regarded supply chain operations and global reach to expand the scope of the Gateway and eMachines brands around the world. Acer has made impressive strides in the global PC market and the board and I welcome this merger.”
If approved outside the US, the acquisiton by Acer of Gateway should be completed by December of 2007.