List of 2017 domestic industrial robots M&A events
The increasing number of mergers and acquisitions in China's industrial robot sector has introduced new dynamics into the market structure, laying a solid foundation for the industry's long-term development. As smart manufacturing gains momentum, many industrial robot manufacturers have taken advantage of this opportunity to expand their capabilities through strategic M&A activities. Some companies have managed to extend their industry chains within the sector, while others have leveraged synergies between related technologies to strengthen their market positions. A few have even ventured abroad, acquiring foreign firms to gain access to advanced technologies, enhance their technical expertise, and achieve breakthroughs both in technology and market presence.
Among the domestic players making significant moves, Estun has stood out with its aggressive acquisition strategy. Over the past year, Estun has acquired four companies, including 100% of TRIO, a UK-based manufacturer of motion control systems; 30% of Barrett Technology, a U.S. high-tech firm; 50.01% of German MAI; and 68% of Yangzhou Shuguang Optoelectronics Co., Ltd. These acquisitions have allowed Estun to complement its AC servo products with TRIO’s advanced motion controllers, while collaboration with Barrett is expected to drive innovation in micro servo systems, human-robot collaboration, and rehabilitation robotics. With MAI’s technology, Estun aims to elevate its robotic applications from low to high-end, building a comprehensive industrial chain that spans from core components to large-scale intelligent manufacturing systems. The acquisition of Yangzhou Shuguang, a leader in military automation equipment, also opens up new opportunities for Estun to enter the defense sector.
Another notable player, Evert, has acquired two Italian companies: WFC, a well-known automotive equipment and robot system integrator, and ROBOX, a company specializing in advanced robotic controllers and programming languages. Through these deals, Evert has strengthened its downstream supply chain and gained access to top-tier automotive and aerospace clients. The acquisition of ROBOX also enables Evert to absorb cutting-edge technologies in robot design and motion control, enhancing its global competitiveness.
Topstar and Xinshida have also made their marks, with Topstar acquiring a 20% stake in Dongguan Noda Intelligent Equipment and Xinshida taking full control of Shanzhi. Additionally, several other companies have announced plans to acquire domestic industrial robot firms. For example, Huachangda expressed interest in acquiring a Swedish robot service provider, while Jiangxi Changxing and Jingdezhen Xinghang announced their intent to acquire a South Korean factory automation company.
From these developments, it's clear that Chinese industrial robot companies are actively seeking growth through M&A, either by expanding their market reach or enhancing their technological capabilities. This reflects not only their ambition but also their confidence in the future of the industry under the smart manufacturing wave. However, there are challenges to address. Many domestic firms still lack strong independent innovation capabilities and rely on external acquisitions to gain access to advanced technologies. While this approach can provide short-term benefits, it doesn't solve the deeper issue: the reliance on foreign companies for critical components like precision reducers, which are currently dominated by Japanese firms such as Nabtesco and Harmonic Drive.
To truly compete globally, Chinese industrial robot companies must invest heavily in R&D, focus on developing core components independently, and break free from foreign monopolies. Only then can they establish a sustainable competitive advantage in the international market.
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