The Swedish HMI specialist Beijer Electronics has bought QSI Corporation, the US-based supplier of rugged operator interfaces and mobile data terminals. The initial purchase price is around SEK80m ($12.1m) and there will be a supplementary payment that depends on QSI’s performance in 2011 and 2012.

“The acquisition of QSI Corporation is a strategically important step for Beijer Electronics, which gives us a good base and a platform for continued expansion in the North American market,” says Beijer’s CEO, Fredrik Jönsson (above). “They complement us well through their product range and with established sales channels in the United States.”

The new business will give Beijer:
♦  a stronger base for expansion in the North American market;
♦  a broader product portfolio through the addition of rugged operator panels and mobile devices for the industrial and the transportation sector; and
♦  more efficient product development, resulting in increased competitiveness.

It will also give QSI the opportunity to expand its sales globally via Beijer’s sales channels, which include offices in 16 countries.

“We are very excited to join forces with Beijer Electronics and to provide our customers with additional software and hardware platforms,” says QSI CEO, Barry Hobbs. “This alliance provides access to global resources and will enhance the service and support that QSI is known for.”

QSI, established in 1983, manufactures rugged operator interface and mobile data terminals for industrial OEMs and commercial vehicle systems integrators. It employs 70 people and its sales this year are expected to be worth around $17.4m. Its headquarters are in Salt Lake City and most of its customers are in North America

QSI is changing its name to Beijer Electronics Inc. and will become Beijer’s North American subsidiary. It will continue to offer its rugged terminals to the industrial and vehicle markets, along with Beijer hardware and software. QSI will become part of the Beijer Electronics Group from 1 November, 2010.

Since Beijer was founded in 1981, it has evolved into a multinational group with 2009 sales worth $160m. In 2007, it bought the industrial communications specialist Westermo for SEK225m ($34m).