Horizons to enter new era with ownership change

Larry Deibert, President of Horizons, Inc., a member of the EarthData group of companies, announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with Fugro NV (www.fugro.com) in which Fugro will acquire 100 percent ownership of the entire EarthData group of companies. The final transaction culminates years of planning for the continued growth and ongoing stability of Horizons and EarthData.

Fugro, a worldwide leader in the collection, processing, and interpretation of data related to the earth's surface, has offices in more than 50 countries and maintains long-term relationships within government and private sectors.

"Joining this global family serves not only to expand Horizons' geographic reach and services range, but also ensures our continued legacy of technology leadership," said Deibert. Fugro's successful track record of deftly managing risk to reap the rewards of major capital investments, combined with Horizons' ability to anticipate and match customers' geospatial needs with emerging technologies, creates a powerhouse from which they plan to build and deploy the next generation of advanced airborne sensors and processing systems.

Fugro, Horizons, and EarthData all share a commitment to first-class service; each has a deeply committed and talented workforce and each has a long record of strong financial performance. The acquisition brings together the best of Fugro, Horizons, and EarthData for the benefit of existing and future customers. And while Horizons' footprint is now truly global, they will maintaining their local and regional presence throughout the US, confirming their commitment to the domestic market.

According to Deibert, "We will continue working with existing and prospective customers, and will continue to uncover geospatial needs and develop partnerships toward solutions. We also look forward to the new geotechnical design and geoscience services offerings this union will afford you."

The acquisition by Fugro is the foundation upon which Horizons will continue to expand its services, develop new geospatial technologies, broaden its geographic reach, and better serve its existing and future customers.