BOSTON– 908 Devices Inc. (Nasdaq: MASS), a pioneer of purpose-built handheld and desktop mass spec devices for chemical and biochemical analysis, announces that it has completed the acquisition of privately-held RedWave Technology, a leading provider of portable FTIR spectroscopic analyzers for rapid chemical identification of bulk materials. FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared), an optical spectroscopy technology, is highly regarded for its specific substance identification abilities across a broad range of bulk materials.
This acquisition provides 908 Devices with an expanded portfolio of handheld chemical analysis devices for forensic workflows that quickly detect and identify unknown solids, liquids, vapors, and aerosols at the point of need. In addition, RedWave bolsters 908 Devices’ desktop portfolio with a line of accessories for pharma Process Analytical Technology (PAT) and industrial QC applications.
“We’re thrilled to welcome the RedWave team to 908 Devices. Our technology platforms are complementary as our forensics customers rely on both mass spec and FTIR analyzers to rapidly assess and monitor their environment for dangerous trace chemicals and bulk chemical hazards,” said Kevin J. Knopp, CEO and Co-founder, 908 Devices. “RedWave Technology is a high growth and profitable company with innovative products that can immediately leverage our sales channel. RedWave is a strong fit and enables us to accelerate our strategic objectives.”
“RedWave Technology and 908 Devices share an extraordinary passion for innovation and customer care,” said Jon Frattaroli, CEO of RedWave Technology, now VP, Strategy at 908 Devices. “Together, we can accelerate the development of new products and services that provide first responders with best-in-class chemical identification tools that enable them to fulfill their mission of keeping our communities safe.”
Founded in 2016, RedWave has placed more than 700 portable analyzers to customers in more than 20 countries. The company is based in Danbury, Connecticut and employs 39 people. For the full year 2023 unaudited results, RedWave grew revenue 20%+ to $13.7 million, achieved a gross margin of 52% and an operating margin of 15%. RedWave is expected to contribute $11 million to 908 Devices’ 2024 reported revenue, representing eight months of ownership.
The purchase consideration includes an initial payment of $53.5 million, consisting of $45.0 million in cash and 1.5 million shares of common stock (representing $8.5 million based on the closing price of the Company’s common stock on April 26, 2024, the day immediately preceding the closing of the transaction). The purchase agreement also includes up to an additional four million shares (representing $22.7 million based on the closing price on April 26, 2024) of contingent consideration upon the achievement of certain revenue and qualified product bookings milestones over the next two years.
Perella Weinberg Partners LP is acting as financial advisor and Goodwin Procter LLP serving as legal counsel to 908 Devices Inc. Diamond Capital Advisors is acting as financial advisor and Benesch, Friedlander, Coplan & Aronoff LLP is serving as legal counsel to RedWave Technology.
