IMS strengthens motion control market position with Schneider Electric

March 2008

MARLBOROUGH, CT – With Schneider Electric’s recent acquisition of US-based Intelligent Motion Systems, IMS secures its future as a technology leader in the motion control market, especially in the fast-growing integrated motor and drive segment it pioneered with the MDrive product line.

 “Teaming up with Schneider Electric will give us faster access to the global market and allow us to expand and secure our growth internationally,” says David Coutu, CEO and founder of IMS, who will stay on board and lead the future expansion of IMS together with the Schneider Electric Motion team.

With 112,000 employees and operations in 190 countries, Schneider Electric generated revenue of €17.3 billion in 2007 through 15,000 distributor outlets. IMS, a company that designs and manufactures integrated motor and drive products, generated revenues around $20 million in 2007.

Michel Crochon, Executive Vice-President of the Automation Business Unit at Schneider Electric, commented: “With this acquisition we will expand our product offering for OEM customers in the US while providing increased technical support in motion applications.”

About Schneider Electric
Schneider Electric, the world’s power and control specialist, anticipates and satisfies its customers’ requirements in the residential, building, data centers and networks, industry and energy and infrastructure markets. Schneider Electric: Giving the best of the New Electric World to everyone, everywhere, at any time.  To learn more, please visit www.schneider-electric.com.

About Intelligent Motion Systems, Inc.
For more than 20 years, IMS has provided innovative motion control solutions in brushless motor technology and electronic controls. Its products are routinely used in applications demanding highly precise, controlled movement including: robotics, medical, assembly, semiconductor, packaging, engraving and pick-and-place. An industry leader in integrated motor and drive solutions, IMS is an R&D driven company with a solid commitment to Excellence in Motion™. To learn more about Intelligent Motion Systems, please visit www.imshome.com.