Field service developer acquired by @Road

Currently offering wireless fleet management services on a hosted, subscription basis, @Road Inc. has agreed to acquire Vidus Ltd., a British developer of field service automation applications. The deal, valued at $54.7 million, has been approved by the directors of both companies and is expect to close before the end of the first quarter.

Vidus specializes in field service automation software for mid- to large-size utilities, telecommunications companies and cable providers. Current customers include British Telecommunications and Cetrica/British Gas.

The acquisition will allow @Road to integrate those field service applications with its current scheduling, dispatching and routing services, according to the company. It should also allow @Road to extend to European and other international markets, the company says.

Vidus will remain in its current Ipswich, U.K. offices operating as a wholly owned subsidiary of @Road, which is headquartered in Fremont, CA.