Wipro Limited , a leading global information technology, consulting, and business process services company, has announced a significant move to bolster its Engineering Research & Development (ER&D) and IT services capabilities. The company has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Harman Connected Services Inc. and its subsidiaries, collectively known as DTS, from Harman International Industries, Inc. for a consideration of up to $375 million.

Strategic Acquisition Details

The acquisition involves Wipro (through its subsidiaries) purchasing 100% shareholding in DTS. The deal, which includes earn-outs, is valued at up to $375 million and will be settled in cash. Wipro expects to complete the transaction by December 31, 2025, subject to anti-trust approvals required under U.S. competition laws and other necessary regulatory clearances.

Expanding ER&D and IT Service Offerings

DTS is a global provider of ER&D and IT services, headquartered in Connecticut, USA. The acquisition is set to enhance Wipro's capabilities in several key areas:

• Embedded Software
• Digital Engineering
• Design Thinking
• Device Engineering
• Cloud & Infrastructure services
• Data Analytics & AI
• Enterprise Automation
• Customer Experience

This strategic move aligns with Wipro's goal to strengthen its position in AI-powered digital engineering and device engineering, spanning across technology, industrial, aerospace, healthcare, and consumer industries.

Global Reach and Expertise

With the integration of DTS, Wipro gains access to a workforce of over 5,600 employees spread across 14 countries, including India, the United States, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Poland, and Germany. This expansion significantly enhances Wipro's global presence and service delivery capabilities.

Financial Insights

DTS has demonstrated consistent performance over the past three years:

For the calendar year 2024, approximately 85% of DTS's revenue was derived from services, while the remaining 15% came from product-related activities.

Synergies and Future Outlook

The acquisition is expected to create synergies by combining DTS's personalized, high-touch service model with Wipro's global scale, advanced technology ecosystem, and extensive resources. This combination aims to provide clients with the best of both worlds: the agility and precision of a specialist provider coupled with the reach and capabilities of a global leader.

Wipro's strategic move reflects the company's commitment to expanding its service offerings and strengthening its position in the competitive IT and ER&D services market. As the integration progresses, industry observers will be keen to see how this acquisition enhances Wipro's capabilities and market position in the rapidly evolving technology landscape.

Note: This acquisition is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

Wipro Limited (NSE: WIPRO, BSE: 507685), a leading AI-powered technology services and consulting company, has announced a significant milestone in the energy industry. In collaboration with AusNet, Victoria's largest diversified energy network business, Wipro has successfully launched SAP S/4HANA Cloud, marking a major technological advancement for the sector.

A Landmark Transformation

The implementation of SAP S/4HANA Cloud Private Edition represents a large-scale cloud ERP system transformation for AusNet. This project, completed ahead of schedule in just 18 months, has replaced legacy systems with an integrated modern cloud platform, setting a new benchmark for ERP upgrades in the complex utilities environment.

Enhancing Operational Efficiency

Chris Galland, Chief Technology Officer at AusNet, emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, stating, "This was more than a technology upgrade – it was an opportunity for the entire company to rally together." The new platform is described as faster, smarter, and ready for the future, promising improved efficiency and scalability.

Field Operations Breakthrough

One of the key achievements of this implementation is the significant improvement in field operational efficiency. Wipro has deployed tailored geospatial mapping tools and advanced asset management solutions on hand-held devices, which are expected to enhance field productivity, even in remote areas with limited connectivity.

Seamless Collaboration

Ketan Panchal, Managing Director and Country Head for Australia at Wipro Limited, highlighted the seamless collaboration between AusNet, SAP, and Wipro. He stated, "This milestone reflects our expertise, especially in SAP and across other Enterprise technologies, to deliver business impact for our clients."

Future-Ready Infrastructure

Angela Colantuono, President and Managing Director of SAP Australia and New Zealand, emphasized the importance of this implementation for AusNet's role in delivering reliable and sustainable energy. She noted, "AusNet has created the digital foundation it needs to unlock real-time insights and operate as an intelligent enterprise, enabling it to better meet growing demand, improve efficiency and help accelerate the transition to a cleaner energy future."

Complex Cutover Process

The implementation involved a complex cutover process, requiring meticulous planning and collaboration. The team interfaced with more than 1,600 internal and external users and over 50 energy retailers, demonstrating the scale and complexity of the project.

This successful implementation by Wipro and AusNet showcases the potential for highly regulated, asset-intensive industries to move quickly and deliver value, setting a new standard in the energy sector's digital transformation journey.