Terminal operator Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) has announced the acquisition of an 80% share in automation technology specialist, iSAM AG.
[s2If is_user_logged_in()]”With this acquisition, HHLA has direct access to technological developments in the automation of industrial processes, which will make it possible to get into new innovative sectors,” commented chairwoman of the executive board, Angela Titzrath.
In a move that reinforces the development of HHLA’s growth and innovation-focused policy, “This transaction confirms our intention to consistently implement our strategy focused on growth and innovation, even under the special conditions of the coronavirus pandemic,” said Titzrath.
iSAM AG is based in the Ruhr Area, and currently has a team of 50 employees. The company has subsidiaries in core markets in the US, Australia (Asia) and Canada. Thanks in particular to its strong position in the Australian market, iSAM was able to grow its revenue and profit by 30% in 2020 despite Covid-19 restrictions, according to a company statement.
iSAM AG has already successfully automated the bulk cargo terminal Hansaport in the Port of Hamburg with the implementation of intelligent control software and high-precision 3D laser scanners. At the moment, iSAM is working for the IHATEC project Container Terminal 4.0 on an automation prototype for rail gantry crane 4 at the Container Terminal Altenwerder and is developing new safety technologies for the workspaces shared by people and machines.
Bernd Mann, shareholder and CEO of iSAM AG, stated, “We have known HHLA for more than 20 years and developed the world’s first automated heavy machinery based on GPS and 3D LiDAR technology alongside companies within the HHLA Group,” and he went on to add, “We look forward to deepening this co-operation and developing new markets in the automation of container handling under the HHLA Group umbrella.”
The remaining 20% of iSAM AG shares will be controlled by three previous managers of the company, while both sides have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.
The founders and former shareholders of iSAM AG will continue to hold responsible positions, according to a statement, while the long-standing chief development officer, Bernd Mann, will take over as chairman of the executive board from founder Dr. Jürgen Hellmich, who will continue to lead the US subsidiary.
Bernd Jotzo, previously responsible for finance and human resources on the executive board, is moving to the supervisory board, while his tasks will be taken over by Bernd Mann and Christian Hacks, who will also continue to lead the production segment.[/s2If]
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