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Quest Solution Announces the Acquisition of HTS Image Processing, Inc., a Leader in Artificial Intelligence-Based Automated Vision Solutions
EUGENE, Ore., Oct. 11, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Quest Solution, Inc. (OTCQB: QUES), (“Quest” or “the Company”) a specialty systems integrator focused on field and supply chain mobility, announced that it has acquired HTS Imaging Processing, Inc. (“HTS”), a technological world leader in computer vision image processing-based solutions for Security, Safe Cities, Traffic Management, Parking Management, Law Enforcement, Surveillance and Access Control. HTS’ groundbreaking AI-based vision solutions are currently in use for sensitive Homeland Security anti-terror projects and discerning customers including: the Brookhaven National Laboratory for access control, JFK Airport, Newark Airport, La Guardia Airport, Boston’s Logan Airport, the U.S. Department of Transportation for readers at the US/Mexico border crossing, as well as a Florida municipality, and a Middle Eastern Homeland Security authority for the automated monitoring of sensitive zones. Inspired by time-critical “friend or foe” decision-making processes, HTS’ patented algorithms are based on a combination of cognitive science and machine learning-based (Artificial Intelligence) pattern recognition arbitrated through a multilayered decision-making process which offers both speed and accuracy. The Company believes that integrating HTS’ patented and proprietary AI technology into Quest’s existing Supply Chain offering will allow for automated logistics monitoring and optimization, creating operational efficiencies at the higher margins associated with the AI value-creation paradigm for both Quest and its Fortune 500 clientele. For the first six months of 2018, Quest reported revenues of approximately $29 million. For fiscal year 2018, HTS is expected to generate approximately $10 million in revenue with operational profitability and average gross margin of approximately 38% -- significantly higher than Quest’s average gross margin of 21%. Quest is purchasing HTS for $6.3 million, mainly paid in restricted shares at the average closing price for the trailing 20 trading days. Shai Lustgarten, CEO of Quest Solution, stated, “We are thrilled to bring innovative AI solutions to our Fortune 500 customers in the Supply Chain market. Adding new technology with Company-owned IP was a key goal that we articulated when new management embarked on the turnaround of Quest. This acquisition provides higher margin growth and transforms Quest’s business model by positioning the Company as a technological leader with state-of-the-art solutions in two multi-billion dollar, high growth markets:
“HTS’ AI technology will take our Supply Chain solutions to the next evel, addressing essential needs in Law Enforcement, Homeland Security, Logistic Yard Management, Automation of Parking, Traffic Management and Security.” Additionally, HTS has a Salt Lake City-based facility that manufactures ruggedized computers and other electronics products for a long-term customer base. Quest expects to utilize this facility to support the manufacture of new white label products for its own Supply Chain solutions. The introduction of white label equipment is expected to enhance customer service while driving higher margins and revenue growth for Quest.” In addition to his role as CEO of Quest Solution, Shai Lustgarten is also a major shareholder and the CEO of HTS, and as a result, the acquisition constitutes a related party transaction. Mr. Carlos Nissenson, a principal shareholder of Quest, is also a principal shareholder of HTS. A special independent committee of the Board of Directors of Quest was established to consider the proposed transaction, and on their recommendation, the Board ordered an independent valuation analysis and a fairness opinion. The Board determined that the transaction is in the best interests of the Company, that the consideration payable by the Company pursuant to the transaction is fair to the shareholders of Quest, and unanimously approved the transaction (with directors who are conflicted, abstaining). ThinkEquity, a division of Fordham Financial Management, Inc., acted as financial advisor to Quest Solution, Inc. Mr. Lustgarten concluded, “As an executive of both companies, I sit in a unique position to see the operational benefits of bringing these two companies together and am pleased that the independent board committee came to the same conclusion after careful consideration. We look forward to this new chapter in the development of our Company and believe this acquisition will enhance our offerings and our leadership position to drive shareholder value.” About Quest Solution, Inc. Rated in the Top 1% of global solution providers, Quest specializes in the design, deployment and management of enterprise mobility solutions including Automatic Identification and Data Capture (AIDC), Mobile Cloud Analytics, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification), and proprietary Mobility software. Our mobility products and services offering is designed to identify, track, trace, share and connect data to enterprise systems such as CRM or ERP solutions. Our customers are leading Fortune 500 companies from several sectors including manufacturing, retail, distribution, food / beverage, transportation and logistics, health care and chemicals / gas / oil. Information about Forward-Looking Statements Investor Contact: |