Acer wraps up Gateway deal

Merged company is the world's third-largest PC vendor

The merger makes Acer the third largest PC vendor in the world

Acer has completed its $710m (£351m) acquisition of Gateway, cementing the company's status as the third-largest PC vendor in the world.

Gateway stock ceased to be available at the close of trading on Tuesday, although the brand will continue to exist as a subsidiary of Acer.

"Because of the friendly and cooperative spirit of this acquisition, we look forward to a seamless integration of Gateway," said Acer's chief executive J T Wang.

"Our enhanced global footprint and leading multi-branded strategy will be extremely valuable for our customers and will drive growth for the combined company in the years ahead."

The merged company will be further strengthened by the pending purchase of Packard Bell. Gateway launched a deal to buy the European vendor in August, blocking a bid from rival firm Lenovo.