Panasonic will acquire US software developer Blue Yonder for $ 7,1 billion in one of the Japanese company’s largest acquisitions ever. Blue Yonder specializes in the development of software solutions for supply chain management and applies artificial intelligence technologies in its products.

At the moment, Panasonic already owns 20% of Blue Yonder. The Japanese company will buy the remaining share from New Mountain Capital and other funds managed by Blackstone Group Inc. for $ 5,6 billion. Taking into account the need to pay off the resulting debts, the total investment of Panasonic will amount to $ 7,1 billion.

The announcement to consolidate 100% of the developer’s shares came less than a year after Panasonic acquired a minority stake in Blue Yonder for $ 800 million, giving the software maker a $ 5,5 billion valuation. in $ 8,5 billion. According to available data, the Japanese company intends to cover part of the transaction in cash, as well as to carry out a loan. The deal is expected to close by the end of this year.

Recall that Blue Yonder was founded in 1985 and was previously called JDA Software Inc. The company develops supply chain management software and uses AI algorithms to predict product demand. The company reportedly reported more than $ 1 billion in revenue last year. More than 3000 Blue Yonder customers worldwide include Best Buy, Coca-Cola and Walmart.