Hitachi Ltd. (TSE: 6501), a global technology leader, has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire all shares of MA micro automation GmbH from MAX Management GmbH, a subsidiary of MAX Automation SE, for EUR 71.5 million. The agreement, signed on April 26, marks a significant expansion of Hitachi’s automation technology footprint in Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2024, subject to regulatory approvals.

Strategic Integration into Hitachi’s Automation Portfolio

Upon completion, MA micro automation will be integrated into JR Automation Technologies, LLC, a subsidiary of Hitachi that leads in advanced automation solutions across various global markets. This acquisition is set to enhance JR Automation’s capabilities, particularly in the high-growth med-tech automation sectors, including the assembly and testing of medical and optical components.

MA micro automation, headquartered in St. Leon-Rot, Germany, is renowned for its high-speed linear handling systems, high-precision assembly lines, and advanced vision inspection technology. Since its establishment in 2003, the company has been at the forefront of micro-assembly technology, significantly impacting the production of medical devices such as contact lenses and diabetes diagnostics.

Enhancing Global Competitiveness and Technological Synergy

Dave DeGraaf, CEO of JR Automation, commented on the acquisition, stating, “MA micro automation provides engineering, build, and support expertise with established capabilities in complex vision applications, high-speed and high-precision automation technologies. This partnership will enhance our ability to deliver added value and support to our customers worldwide and continue to grow our capabilities in the medical market.”

The acquisition aligns with Hitachi’s strategy to deliver a “Total Seamless Solution” to its customers, integrating operational activities with real-time data-driven decision-making capabilities, thus advancing Industry 4.0 initiatives. Kazunobu Morita, Vice President and Executive Officer, CEO of Industrial Digital Business Unit at Hitachi, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, highlighting the strategic fit within Hitachi’s broader industrial digital strategy.

A New Chapter for MA micro automation

Joachim Hardt, CEO of MA micro automation, sees the acquisition as a new chapter that will strengthen the company’s global position and enhance technological synergies. He noted, “Our partnership with Hitachi will not only strengthen our global competitive position, but we will also benefit from joint technological synergies and a global market presence.”

This acquisition is a testament to Hitachi’s continued commitment to expanding its technological prowess and market reach within the automation industry. By integrating MA micro automation’s specialized technologies, Hitachi not only strengthens its product offerings but also solidifies its position as a leader in the global automation market.

  global automation technology, Hitachi, Hitachi acquisition, JR Automation Technologies, MA micro automation, med-tech automation market