The takeover will allow Bechtle to expand its own service portfolio to include services for self-service terminals (e.g. cash machines, bank statement printers). The integration of SGB will see Bechtle's finance sector (part of the system house division) grow to over 200 employees. The current managing director, Dietmar Heinle, will continue in his role as the head of SGB.

"This takeover is not about turnover growth. We are looking to improve our market position as a complete service provider in the banking and savings bank sector" explained Ralf Klenk, CEO of Bechtle AG. Bechtle has been involved in the savings bank sector since 1988. Around 180 experts currently offer services to numerous banks and savings banks throughout Germany. The integration of SGB represents an important addition to the Bechtle system house Group's service portfolio.

SGB can now offer its customers the complete service portfolio of the Bechtle Group, in particular its retail services. Dietmar Heinle, managing director of SGB sees new future prospects for the company and announced: "we will significantly expand our service portfolio, especially in the client/server sector". The company employs over 40 members of staff and recorded a turnover of several million Euros in 2003. The company figures have been in the black for many years. Both parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.