Teleste Takes the Lead in the Rail Video Security and Passenger Information Segment Through an Acquisition

TURKU, Finland, January 7, 2015 /PRNewswire/ --

Teleste is acquiring the Finnish solutions provider Mitron to become one of the leading end-to-end providers of rail-specific video security and information management solutions  

Teleste, an international technology group specialised in broadband video and data communication systems and services, announced today that it is acquiring Mitron Group Oy Ltd, the Finnish provider of public transportation information systems and modern display solutions. The acquisition follows Teleste's strategy to become one of the leading suppliers of end-to-end video and information management solutions for the rail market.

A major aim of the transaction is to answer to rail operators' growing demands of end-to-end solutions that enable more efficient operations with enhanced passenger service and security throughout the rail ecosystem. Both Teleste and Mitron have been granted an IRIS certificate, and the acquisition further increases their compliances in providing high standard solutions that are specified for the needs of the rail industry.

Right message, right people, right time - for the benefit of rail operators 

Together Teleste and Mitron form one of the leading providers in the market offering the rail industry complete solutions for stations, rail cars and wireless data transmission between these two. The solution supports wireless offload from rail cars as well as real-time connectivity with live video transmission between rail cars and stations, and includes advanced passenger information and CCTV systems both in rail cars and at the station.

Key benefits for the operators are accurate and timely information as well as rapid and correct situation awareness and actions. In short, the solution ensures that the right message is delivered to the right people and at the right time. In addition to improved safety of operations and passengers, the solution also helps rail operators offer more advanced, better quality passenger services through e.g. live onboard entertainment. Visit the link to learn more about Teleste's end-to-end rail solution

"There is growing demand for more capable video security and real-time information management solutions in the rail segment. The customers are looking for end-to-end solutions that enable them to improve operational efficiency and security, and offer better quality passenger services," says Johan Slotte, Deputy CEO of Teleste Corporation and head of its Video Networks Business Unit. "Teleste is aiming to provide the rail market with a complete solution that fulfils our customers' wishes, and joining forces with Mitron meets that target in the most efficient way."

Both Teleste and Mitron have a strong, international customer base. Teleste has profound expertise in providing video surveillance solutions for major rail operators such as CTA in the US and the SNCF in France as well as world class references from large networked video surveillance projects. Mitron's customer base consists of  major rail car manufacturers such as Alstom, Bombardier, Siemens and Stadler as well as several major rail operators. "We are delighted to join the Teleste team as the acquisition enables us to a reach a wider market for both Teleste and Mitron products. With joined forces, we can offer the rail market with a seamless and complete end-to-end solution fit for any rail operator and rail car manufacturer," states Lasse Orre, CEO of Mitron Group Oy Ltd.

Mitron will continue its activities as an independent company as part of the video surveillance business unit within Teleste's Video and Broadband Solutions Business Area and with its current management. The two former majority shareholders, Heino Ruottinen and Juha Siitonen, will continue to be members of the Board of Directors of Mitron Group's mother company. No personnel reductions are planned as a result of the acquisition.  

About Teleste 

Teleste is an international technology company that develops and offers video and broadband technologies and related services. Our supply of technology contributes to the convenience and safety of daily living. Our core business is video - image and data processing, transfer and management. Our customer base consists of cable and telecom operators, as well as public sector organizations. Our business is divided into two divisions, which are Video and Broadband Solutions and Network Services. In both areas, we rank among the world's leading companies and technological forerunners. Video and Broadband Solutions focuses on access networks and product solutions in video surveillance applications. Network Services offers comprehensive services for network design, construction and maintenance. In 2013, Teleste's net sales totalled EUR 192.8 million, and the company employed about 1,300 people. Teleste runs a worldwide network of offices and more than 90% of its sales are generated outside Finland. The company is listed on the NASDAQ Helsinki. For more information see  http://www.teleste.com  and follow  @telestecorp  on Twitter.

About Mitron 

Mitron has 25 years of experience in reliable solutions for public information systems with diverse applications in On-board, Railway and Display Solutions. With our technology, tomorrow's passenger can enjoy secure and easy-going travelling with reliable information management. Supported by a dedicated service network, our professionals serve customers in their global projects throughout the world. As of 7 January 2015, Mitron ispart of the Teleste Group. For more information, see  http://www.mitron.com.