In 2024, 11 mergers and acquisitions occurred in the global mobile robotics sector, with an estimated transaction value exceeding 1 billion RMB.
ABB Acquires Sevensense
On January 12, ABB announced its acquisition of Sevensense, a Swiss startup specializing in AI-based 3D visual navigation technology for autonomous mobile robots (AMRs). Founded in 2018 as a spin-off from ETH Zurich, Sevensense enhances ABB’s capabilities in next-generation AI-driven AMRs. This move aligns with ABB’s vision to integrate AI robotics into workplaces, addressing labour shortages while improving flexibility and intelligence in operations.
ABB Acquires Majority Stake in Meshmind
On January 18, ABB announced plans to acquire a majority stake in Meshmind, a software services provider. Meshmind’s 50 employees will join B&R Industrial Automation, an ABB subsidiary, to advance projects in machine vision, deep learning, and IoT applications. This acquisition builds on their prior collaboration and establishes a global R&D hub for ABB.
Kiwibot Acquires AUTO Mobility Solutions Co
On April 4, Kiwibot, known for its AI-powered AMRs, announced the acquisition of AUTO Mobility Solutions Co, a Taiwan-based company incubated by Alibaba. AUTO specializes in integrated circuit (IC) chips for AI, autonomous vehicles, and IoT. This acquisition strengthens Kiwibot’s capabilities in advanced path planning, positioning, and obstacle avoidance technologies.
Anhui Heli Acquires Majority Stake in Yufeng Intelligent
On April 9, Anhui Heli Co., Ltd. announced plans to acquire a 64.6% stake in Anhui Yufeng Intelligent Technology Co., Ltd. for 271 million RMB and invest an additional 100 million RMB. Yufeng Intelligent provides intelligent logistics solutions, including AGVs and automated warehouses. The acquisition supports Anhui Heli’s transformation into a comprehensive smart logistics integrator.
Yinhe Electronics Acquires PatentGuru’s Unmanned Assets
On May 28, Yinhe Electronics, through its subsidiary Anhui Xiaojun, acquired all unmanned assets of Hefei PatentGuru for 10 million RMB. PatentGuru, established in 2020, focuses on technologies such as unmanned vehicles and military target drones. The acquisition strengthens Yinhe’s position in the smart special equipment market.
Farui Landa and Density Robotics Announce Strategic Restructuring
On August 5, Density Robotics’ founder joined Farui Landa as CTO, marking the start of a strategic merger. The two companies plan to integrate technologies, products, and resources to drive innovation and expand their market presence.
Symbotic Acquires Veo Robotics
In August, Symbotic Inc. acquired nearly all assets of Veo Robotics, a company specializing in industrial robotics collaboration. Veo’s AI-driven solutions enable robots to work safely alongside humans, enhancing manufacturing flexibility.
Cobalt Robotics Acquired by Investor Dean Drako
In August, Cobalt Robotics, a developer of AMRs for security applications, was acquired by investor Dean Drako and rebranded as Cobalt AI. The financial terms were undisclosed.
Sungrow Power Acquires Stake in Taihe Intelligent
On October 18, Sungrow Power announced plans to acquire a 10.24% stake in Hefei Taihe Intelligent Technology Group for 451 million RMB. This acquisition gives Sungrow control of Taihe Intelligent and positions it for growth in the intelligent manufacturing sector.
Enerpac Acquires Heavy-Load AGV Maker DTA
On September 14, Enerpac Tool Group purchased DTA for €24 million. DTA designs and manufactures robotic solutions for handling heavy industrial loads, complementing Enerpac’s heavy-lifting technologies.
HL Group Acquires Stanley Robotics
On October 12, Korea’s HL Group acquired a 74.1% stake in Stanley Robotics for $24 million. Stanley Robotics, known for its autonomous parking robots, has deployed solutions in major airports and signed contracts with the Canadian National Railway. This acquisition aligns with HL Group’s strategic focus on autonomous parking technologies.
