Hitachi buys MA micro-automation to boost SI business

Hitachi buys MA micro-automation to boost SI business

April 29, 2024

Hitachi is buying German robot and automation technology specialist MA micro-automation for €71.5 million and plans to combine it with US-based systems integrator JR Automation Technologies (which it bought in 2019) to accelerate the expansion of its automation business .

MA, which was originally Siemens’ specialist mechanical engineering company before being acquired by Rohwedder in 2003, had a turnover of €46.5 million in 2023 and employs around 200 people. In 2013, MA became part of the Max Automation group, which has now sold the company to Hiitachi.

MA has expertise in high-speed linear handling systems, precision assembly lines and high-speed vision inspection technologies, and has operations in Europe, North America and Southeast Asia. It focuses on automating medical technology applications, such as contact lens production machines and injection molding machines for medical use.

The takeover will make this possible JR automation to expand its geographic footprint and its presence in the medical market. JR currently employs more than 2,000 people at more than 20 manufacturing locations in North America, Europe and Southeast Asia, covering a combined area of ​​nearly 2 million square feet (185,806 m2).²).

“This partnership will further enhance our ability to provide added value and support to all of our customers worldwide and continue to expand our capabilities in the medical market,” said Dave DeGraaf, CEO of JR.

The takeover increases Hitachi‘s ability to digitally connect manufacturers’ factory floors to their front offices. The goal is to connect organizations’ operational activities, such as engineering, supply chain and purchasing, to the factory floor, and enable real-time, data-driven decision making.

The modular Centauri IVD machine from MA micro Automation is used for the injection molding of pipette tips

MA micro Automation CEO Joachim Hardt describes the Hitachi acquisition as “opening a new chapter” for his company. “Our partnership with Hitachi will not only strengthen our global competitiveness, but we will also benefit from joint technological synergies and a global market presence.”

The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2024.

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MA micro-automation: LinkedIn-Facebook

JR Automation Technologies: X LinkedIn-Facebook