Area firm sells manufacturing company for $925 million

SARASOTA — Ametek Inc. signed a definitive agreement to acquire Gatan, a manufacturer of instrumentation and software used to enhance and extend the operation and performance of electron microscopes, from Sarasota-based Roper Technologies Inc. in an all-cash transaction valued at $925 million. 

Gatan's product portfolio includes electron microscopy cameras and instrumentation, electron energy filters, software and accessories, according to a press release. 

"Gatan is an outstanding company and nicely complements our existing portfolio of specialized offerings in high-end analytical instrumentation," says Ametek Chairman and CEO David Zapico in a statement. "Their differentiated technology solutions, premier brand and leadership positions in attractive growth markets make this a highly attractive acquisition for Ametek."

Gatan has annual sales of approximately $180 million and is headquartered in Pleasanton, Calif., a press release says. Ametek has annual sales of approximately $5 billion.

"Ametek is an ideal home for Gatan to continue its revolutionary work enabling electron microscopy technology," says Roper President and CEO Neil Hunn in a statement. "The combination of these businesses will be a great fit for Gatan's talented employees and loyal customers."

Roper Technologies operates businesses that design and develop software (both license and software-as-a-service) and engineered products and solutions for a variety of niche end markets.

The transaction is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2019.