HHLA is acquiring the majority share of an automation specialist to continue its growth- and innovation-focused strategy.
Germany-headquartered iSAM is a global specialist in automation technology. HHLA is taking over 80% of shares in the company. The remaining 20% are controlled by three previous managers of iSAM. The purchase price will not be disclosed.
Chairwoman of the HHLA executive board, Angela Titzrath, said: “With the opening of the Container Terminal Altenwerder 20 years ago, HHLA already showed what potential automation had. 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.
“This transaction confirms our intention to consistently implement our strategy focused on growth and innovation, even under the special conditions of the coronavirus pandemic.”
Bernd Mann, shareholder and CEO of iSAM, said: “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. We look forward to deepening this cooperation and developing new markets in the automation of container handling under the HHLA Group umbrella.”
Hansaport automation
iSAM 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. iSAM is currently 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.
iSAM AG has subsidiaries in core markets in the US, Australia (Asia) and Canada. Due 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.
