Listed German tech firm, Bechtle, has acquired the North West-based DriveWorks, signifying a major development in the tech industry.
- DriveWorks, well-known for its design automation and 3D configuration software, will now operate under Bechtle’s vast portfolio.
- The founding figures, Glen Smith and Maria Sarkar, will transition roles but continue to influence DriveWorks’ future growth.
- This acquisition marks the exit of BGF, a significant investor since 2021, highlighting its successful investment strategy.
- Bechtle’s long-standing relationship with DriveWorks will continue, ensuring stability and growth for its global customer base.
Listed German tech firm, Bechtle, has successfully acquired the North West-based company, DriveWorks, for an undisclosed sum. DriveWorks is renowned for its design automation and 3D sales product configuration software, serving the manufacturing and engineering sectors since its founding in 2001 by Glen Smith and Maria Sarkar.
DriveWorks, currently employing 59 staff at its Thelwall base, expressed excitement about joining Bechtle. Maria Sarkar, Vice President & Co-Founder of DriveWorks, stated, “We are thrilled to be part of Bechtle. We share the same drive, passion, and commitment to delivering exceptional technology to manufacturers worldwide, while valuing the people who make it all possible.” She emphasized the growing demand for Design Automation, 3D Visualization, and CPQ solutions.
The acquisition complements Bechtle’s strategy, aligning with its longstanding provision of DriveWorks’ add-on software. Uwe Burk, Executive Vice President of Bechtle AG, commented, “For our customers, automating design and custom configurations are key to boosting efficiency and establishing new business models. DriveWorks has developed an outstanding application that will be hugely important in the future.”
Glen Smith and Maria Sarkar will hand leadership to successors Mark Sarkar and Philip Stears, yet remain integral to the company’s ongoing operations. DriveWorks will continue to serve Solidworks resellers across 54 countries, maintaining subsidiaries in Australia and the USA, and staff in France and India.
The acquisition results in the exit of BGF, a significant investor who injected £4 million into DriveWorks in 2021, resulting in more than doubled revenues. Harry Jones, BGF investor, remarked on the positive exit reflecting their successful investment model, while Maria Sarkar acknowledged BGF’s role in catalyzing DriveWorks’ growth.
Bechtle’s acquisition of DriveWorks is a strategic move that promises enhanced technological offerings and global expansion.
