CONTACT takes over the Fast Concept Modeller from ForceFive AG

Bremen, 13 July 2011 – Following a strategic realignment of the previous investor, CONTACT Software has acquired the CAD optimisation software "Fast Concept Modeller", which has been developed by ForceFive AG (Munich) since 2002. The transaction includes the purchase of the product, the associated intellectual property rights and other rights, as well as the transfer of the responsible product developers. "The new product and employees will be integrated into a new business unit of CONTACT Software. The exact organisation will be determined within the next months in accordance with customer and market requirements", says Karl Heinz Zachries, Managing Director of CONTACT.

Fast Concept Modeller (FCM) enables simulation and validation of future product behaviour, right in the early concept phase. This allows companies to not only make considerable savings in terms of time and costs, but also to use the available CAD technologies and the generated CAD data more effectively. The software offers companies valuable support in promoting a more rapid development of the first product idea into a solid concept, and ensuring a smooth transition into later development phases.

ForceFive has been an established partner of the automotive industry for many years thanks to its product and the company's renowned know-how, particularly in the concept phase. As a result of the takeover, CONTACT has strengthened its existing commitment within the CAE environment and concept design phase. CONTACT is now able to provide its customers with a unique offering, helping them to implement consistent processes in the CAE world, a world that is characterised by specialized software tools.

"With the takeover of this important asset from ForceFive, we have found a solution which satisfies all of the parties involved. Because the continuity of development and the support are guaranteed, the sale does not represent any disadvantages, but, on the contrary, provides customers and partners with substantial advantages as a result of our increased possibilities", Zachries remarks. CONTACT's commitment has led to a noticeable improvement of the framework conditions, which in turn will have positive repercussions for today's FCM customers and which will open new areas of application to existing customers, Zachries continues, outlining some additional perspectives. "Furthermore we benefit from the existing international partner network, which will support the process of internationalisation of our company sustainably. We therefore strive to continue the trustful collaboration within the existing partnership agreements“.

The parties have agreed not to disclose any information relating to the purchase price.