Adobe completes the acquisition of ex-rivals Macromedia

Adobe completes the acquisition of ex-rivals Macromedia

Two of the most popular software development companies for web and graphical applications are now merged as software maker Adobe Systems confirmed yesterday that they have completed its acquisition of Macromedia Inc. on Saturday. As a part of the deal, Macromedia shares will be converted into the right to receive 1.38 shares of Adobe common stock and will no longer be traded.

Adobe added that the merger would help them create a ‘powerful software platform’ based on Adobe’s PDF technology and Macromedia Flash. Bruce Chizen, chief executive officer of Adobe added: “The explosion of digital content, combined with the accelerating proliferation of mobile phones, wireless devices and the growth of broadband are transforming the way the world engages with information”.

He further said: “Adobe and Macromedia are at the centre of this trend, and together we will build on our combined heritage to redefine the way people and businesses communicate”. Adobe also announced several new packages for their users with combine product offerings from both Macromedia and their own portfolio.

The Adobe Design bundle contains Adobe’s Creative Suite 2 Premium and Macromedia’s Flash Professional 8. The Web bundle from the company contains Creative Suite 2 Premium and Macromedia Studio 8. Another bundle is expected to be launched next year and would be called Adobe video bundle. Few details have been revealed about this package but it should include the Macromedia Flash Professional.