ABB acquires APS Technology

The transaction is expected to be completed during the first quarter of 2013.

APS is a leading global supplier of vision based automation solutions that identify containers, trucks, rail equipment, and other transport assets for ports and intermodal container facilities. These systems help container terminals, port authorities and shipping lines to streamline their operations by automating manual processes within gate, vessel, rail and yard operations.

ABB says that the addition will not only help it to break into the container terminal market, but also adjacent supply chain markets. APS will be incorporated into ABB’s process automation division.

Heikki Soljama, head of ABB’s Marine and Cranes business unit, said: “The acquisition of APS is an important milestone for us to expand our terminal automation offering and provide our customers with added-value integrated solutions. This acquisition is a good strategic fit for our existing solution portfolio, and will further strengthen our product portfolio.”

Likewise, it’s a good deal for APS which wants to extend its support and engineering capabilities into new geographic regions. Its customers will now benefit from ABB’s global reach in sales and service, and combined efforts in R&D projects.