RedPrairie and JDA Software Group Inc. announced on Dec. 21, 2012, the completion of the previously announced merger between the two companies. The merger positions the combined company as "the leader in global supply chain management," according to a statement.

The transaction creates one of the largest global software companies with combined revenues of over $1 billion. The new combined company will adopt the JDA brand identity and be headquartered in Scottsdale, Ariz. The group plans to offer "a broad portfolio of integrated planning and execution solutions and services to help global firms manage their supply chains" – from raw materials to finished products and into the hands of consumers – through any channel.

Since the merger agreement was announced on Nov. 1, 2012, the two companies have been preparing an integration plan designed to rapidly combine the operations of the two companies into one. The plan is now substantially complete, and the integration process will begin early in the new year and will be rapidly followed up with an integrated product roadmap in the second quarter, in time for the combined user group conference on May 5, 2013.

JDA President and CEO Hamish Brewer, who will lead the new company, said that the combination of the two companies represents a new force in global supply chain management, multi-channel commerce, merchandising and store operations.

"Among our shared customers, over 300 have already chosen solutions from both firms, underscoring the potential of our highly complementary product suites. We are committed to building on our best-in-class solutions portfolio to create the most compelling and comprehensive offering for both current and new customers seeking global supply chain solutions and services," Brewer commented. "Supported by the broadest and deepest pool of supply chain experts in existence today, our customers will enjoy industry leading return on investment, particularly when they take full advantage of our cloud deployment capability."

"Companies are looking for ways to meet the evolving needs of today's consumer, who is always connected," said Alok Singh, Chairman of the Board of the combined company. "With unparalleled domain expertise, global reach and market-leading, front-to-back supply chain management solutions, the new JDA is perfectly positioned to deliver best-of-breed software products for manufacturers and retailers around the globe. The completion of this merger is a significant step forward and enables us to execute on our long-term vision of adding value to our customers as both a strategic and operating partner."

Greenhill & Co. served as financial advisor to RedPrairie and dealer manager for the tender offer, and Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson LLP acted as legal counsel. Credit Suisse also served as a financial advisor to RedPrairie.

J.P. Morgan acted as financial advisor to JDA. DLA Piper LLP acted as legal counsel for JDA, and Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP represented the independent directors of the Board of Directors of JDA.