AA and GeoSmart Map Out Future Together

Media Release: 14 March 2007

AA and GeoSmart Map Out Future Together

The AA has formalised their relationship with digital mapping innovator GeoSmart, with the acquisition of their assets announced today.

With over 1.2 million members, the AA is always looking for ways to assist motorists, says Pete Blackwell, General Manager of AA Tourism.

“The AA represents mobility, and this partnership with GeoSmart will benefit every motorist in the country - whether they are members, domestic and international travellers, business people on the go or someone just wanting to get from A – Z “

The acquisition reflects business growth, says Mr Blackwell.

“We believe that GeoSmart are the market leaders in mapping technology, he says. “Because of their success demonstrated with in-car navigation technology to date, this gives validity to GeoSmart’s proficiency in their online and cartographic mapping services also.”

“You can’t separate the AA and maps – they are intrinsically linked. However, we have come a long way since the days of the basic tourist map. The advent of the web and portable technology devices in recent years literally means we are moving with the times, this type of technology is the way of the future. Together the AA and GeoSmart will develop and deliver a high standard of consumer mapping across the board.”

Phil Allen, General Manager of GeoSmart Limited, says the partnership demonstrates a pedigree in mapping expertise between both organisations.

"GeoSmart looks forward to bringing the benefits of AA ownership to their clients. We drive virtually every public road in New Zealand to map them - over 94,000km to create a full turn restriction database. The integrity of that data can now be even better maintained on an ongoing basis with the help of the AA Roadservice fleet and local staff who drive our roads. The quality stamp that comes with our partnership with the AA is an added bonus - ensuring we continue to offer the best data for our wide range of mapping solutions,” he says.

“GeoSmart and the AA are no strangers to each other, having already developed AA SmartMap together in 2005”, says Mr Allen.

The AA has acquired an additional 11 staff from GeoSmart, dramatically increasing the size of their original mapping capability. With the growth in numbers the combined teams will be relocating to new premises on the North Shore next month.

ENDS

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