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Helicon Publishing Ltd announces the acquisition of the core mapping activities and databases of AND Cartographic Publishers Ltd (ACP).
ACP was previously a part of AND International Publishers NV, a Rotterdam-based company quoted on the Amsterdam Stock Exchange, which specializes in Internet and WAP-enabled travel and address data solutions and information technology. ACP publishes atlases and cartographic products. Titles include the Atlas of the World, the Satellite Atlas of the World, and the Upside Down Road Atlas of Great Britain. ACP owns extensive world atlas cartographic databases, and also uses the road mapping databases compiled by AND Data Solutions in road atlas products. The agreement between Helicon and AND includes a licence for continued use of this data, which is considered to be the most extensive of its kind in the world.
Unique new combinations of data
Helicon is already well-known for its innovative development of consumer and educational reference material, and already owns, develops, and licenses a huge range of data from its 21-million-word set of databases. As a result of the acquisition Helicon will be able to create unique combinations of map and encyclopedic material which will strengthen its position in both print and online markets. Helicon was acquired by WHSmith in January 1999 as part of the Group's strategy to create and own distinctive content.
ACP's expert cartographic staff, currently based in Finchampstead, Berkshire, will move to Oxford to join Helicon's existing editorial, database, and technical operation.
Commenting on the acquisition, David Attwooll, Helicon's MD, said:
This acquisition is a perfect fit for us, as it will enable Helicon to combine the data sets and editorial skills in creative ways to offer our customers a range of new print and online products. It will also give us exciting new opportunities in creating and licensing data for customers accessing the Web via the next generation of mobile devices.
Richard Thorne, COO of AND, commented:
AND is increasingly focusing on adding high-end functionality to its data sets. This strategic focus has resulted in the decision to find a partner for AND Cartographic Publishers. Through the license agreement we welcome Helicon and WHSmith to our group of clients. We see a lot of potential to enhance the future relationship between AND and Helicon in relation to the quality and the extent of our data sets.
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