Brady Corporation acquires GE IDenticard Systems

Brady Corporation, a manufacturer of identification solutions, announced that it has acquired GE IDenticard Systems Inc., based in Lancaster, Pa., and its Canadian affiliate IDenticam, located in Markham, Ontario. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

IDenticard, founded in 1970, is a market leader in personal identification, access control and consumable identification badges. Known as an innovator in security card technology, its products include identification card systems that combine biometrics, digital imaging and other technologies to positively identify people and prevent identification card counterfeiting; and access control systems that restrict entry into buildings using multiple card-reader technologies. IDenticam offers integrated photo identification solutions, printers, supplies, accessories and visitor management solutions.

The companies, with 120 employees in the U.S. and 36 in Canada, have more than 30,000 customers in healthcare, education, government and manufacturing. They had combined 2005 sales of about $33 million (U.S.). IDenticard and IDenticam were acquired by GE in March 2005 as part of its acquisition of Edwards Systems Technology.

"With an increased importance on safety and security around the world, the need for effective personal identification has never been greater. IDenticard's proprietary products and advanced technologies in this area make them a terrific addition to Brady's personal identification brands including TEMPbadge, Stopware and J.A.M. Plastics in the U.S., and BIGBadge in the U.K and France," said Tom Felmer, Brady vice president - Direct Marketing Americas. "The acquisition of IDenticard and IDenticam further strengthens our position in the personal identification market and establishes Brady as a leader in card access security badges. We expect this acquisition to play a key role in our global personal identification product strategy."

"We're very excited to be joining the Brady team," said IDenticard general manager Bob Hager. "Brady brings strong leadership with a commitment to product development and innovation that will provide significant opportunities for our growth and further enhance our focus on the customer."