Sandvik AB yesterday said it has agreed to acquire DWFritz Automation Inc., a global provider of precision metrology, inspection, and assembly products for advanced manufacturing. Wilsonville, Ore.-based DWFritz designs, builds, and supports engineered-to-order, high-speed, non-contact metrology and automation systems.
“This is in line with our strategic focus to grow organically and through acquisitions in the advanced manufacturing space, with special focus on industrial software, industrial metrology, and additive manufacturing solutions,” stated Stefan Widing, president and CEO of Sandvik.
DWFritz Automation has offices in France and China. The company said it has many Fortune 500 customers and more than 2,000 systems installed worldwide. In 2020, the company had about 560 employees, revenues of approximately SEK 720 million ($78 million U.S.). It recently partnered with Ambi Robotics to build custom picking systems.
In addition, DWFritz had an EBIT margin slightly dilutive to Sandvik Manufacturing and Machining Solutions. Impact on Sandvik's earnings per share will initially be neutral. The parties did not disclose the purchase price.
Sandvik to add DWFritz to manufacturing, machining unit
Stockholm-based Sandvik said that DWFritz will expand its current metrology offerings and become a leader in in-line metrology, including a broader position in high-speed, high-volume, non-contact inspection and assembly automation. DWFritz will be reported in Sandvik's metrology division, within the Sandvik Manufacturing and Machining Solutions business area.
The company previously acquired Allied Construction Products LLC and DSI Underground and partnered with Exyn Technologies.
“By acquiring DWFritz Automation, we will be able to expand our metrology and automation offering further,” said Kim Hansen, president of the metrology division in Sandvik Manufacturing Solutions. “This will not only strengthen our position, but will also enable us to offer full metrology solutions to our customers—which will reduce cost and improve quality significantly in their broader value chain.”
The transaction is expected to close during the second half of 2021, subject to customary regulatory approvals.