FMC Tech to Acquire 45% of Schilling Robotics

FMC Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: FTI) and Schilling Robotics announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement whereby FMC Technologies will acquire a 45% interest in Schilling Robotics LLC for $116m in a transaction expected to close no later than December 31, 2008. The acquisition is expected to be accretive to FMC Technologies’ earnings per share in 2009.

FMC Technologies is a manufacturer and supplier of subsea production systems.  Schilling Robotics is a producer of ROVs (remotely operated vehicles), ROV manipulator systems, control systems, and other technology equipment and services for oil and gas subsea exploration and production.

FMC Technologies Chairman, President and CEO, Peter D. Kinnear said, “This is a unique and exciting opportunity to expand our subsea business in a new direction.  Our global subsea franchise will assist Schilling Robotics in extending its reach worldwide and better position it to serve its customers.  Additionally, the relationship will allow FMC to participate more fully in the increasing integration of remote activities performed on the seabed such as subsea processing, well intervention and production optimization.”
 
In addition to its expected purchase of 45% of Schilling by year end, FMC Technologies is acquiring the rights to exercise an option over the two year period beginning in 2012 to acquire the remaining 55% of the company.

(www.fmctechnologies.com)