The group, which focuses on electronic toll collection and parking management hardware and software, includes two UK-based operations. PIPS is a leading provider of number plate recognition and DCS develops vehicle detection and classification technologies.

Queen’s Award for Innovation-winning PIPS Technology, based in Chandlers Ford, Hampshire, provides advanced number plate recognition systems including ANPR and image processing systems and has installations around the UK and across the world. Diamond Consulting Services (DCS), based in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, is the developer of Idris automatic vehicle detection and classification technology. DCS is constantly undertaking R&D work in Australia and in the USA as well as in the UK to stay at the cutting edge of this fast-expanding area of traffic management.

The companies will form an integral part of 3M’s worldwide Traffic Safety Systems (TSS) business within the 3M Display & Graphics Division.

Business Director for 3M Display & Graphics for the UK and Ireland, Steve Adams said of the acquisition: “We’re delighted to enhance our 3M TSS portfolio of products with the range of leading technologies from FSTech. I am confident that this will equip us to develop strong, next generation solutions. Governmental and commercial customers in the UK and Ireland and around the world will be able to rely on 3M for integrated parking, toll and public safety solutions.”

3M is a world leader in developing innovative solutions for the traffic safety market. Its wide product range includes reflective sheeting for traffic signs, vehicle conspicuity markings, licence plate reflective sheeting, road marking tapes and surface applied road studs.