The rumors were true: Lionbridge announced that it is acquiring Bowne Global Solutions (BGS) "for at least $180 million (excluding cash received), in a combination of cash and common stock. The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2005 and is expected to be accretive to Lionbridge earnings within the first full quarter of combined operations, excluding restructuring and related expenses. An investor webcast and a conference call are scheduled for 9:00 am EST Tuesday, June 28th."

So there you have it. Lionbridge is the new king of the globalization services hill -- "creating a $400 million provider with global scale across more than 25 countries and approximately 500 customers."

It's been a very busy week in the globalization industry. First SDL/TRADOS and now Lionbridge/BGS. I'll have lots to say about this deal as I learn more, but I do think it's a good move for Lionbridge, provided the company can continue to diversify beyond the software industry.