Munich unicorn on a shopping spree: Agile Robots acquires thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering

Why is Agile Robots making this acquisition and what are the strategic reasons behind it?

Agile Robots is acquiring assets from thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering to significantly strengthen its market position in intelligent automation solutions. The company sees this acquisition as an opportunity to strategically combine AI, robotics, and industrial expertise, thereby opening up new growth areas. This strategic decision is based on the understanding that now is the right time to bring these technologies and competencies together. Zhaopeng Chen, founder and CEO of Agile Robots, emphasizes that physical AI offers industry enormous productivity gains. With the acquisition of thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering, the Munich-based company not only gains a perfect addition to jointly drive the next industrial revolution, but also does so from Germany, reflecting a strong focus on the European location and German engineering tradition.

What motivated Agile Robots to choose thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering?

The decision to acquire thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering was driven by several factors that made the company particularly attractive. First and foremost is the technological expertise that thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering has built up over decades. This is complemented by an extensive network of long-standing customer relationships that have developed over many years and represent a strong customer base. Particularly valuable is thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering's decades of experience, especially in the international automotive industry. This know-how, the established customer relationships, and the technological competence together form the perfect foundation for Agile Robots to realize its growth ambitions and tap into new market segments.

How large is Agile Robots currently, and how will the company change as a result of this acquisition?

Agile Robots was founded in Munich in 2018 as a spin-off from the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and has grown into a substantial company. Currently, Agile Robots employs more than 2,500 people from approximately 60 different countries, underscoring the company's international focus and diversity. With the acquisition of thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering, the team will expand by around 650 experts, representing growth of approximately 26 percent of the current workforce. In addition to this personnel expansion, ten new locations in Europe and North America will be added, significantly broadening the company's geographic footprint. This expansion strengthens both the quantitative and qualitative aspects of Agile Robots' organizational structure and capabilities.

What revenue growth has Agile Robots achieved so far, and what was the revenue of thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering?

Agile Robots' revenue growth since its founding in 2018 can only be described as impressive. The company has doubled its revenue annually since its inception, representing an exponential growth curve and reflecting the strong market demand for its solutions. In 2024, Agile Robots achieved revenue of approximately €200 million, a result of this annual doubling. Thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering contributed revenue in the hundreds of millions in 2024, meaning the company generated at least €100 million but less than €1 billion in revenue. This combination of two high-performing companies will create a new order of magnitude in the field of intelligent automation solutions and significantly strengthen the overall market position.

How will this acquisition affect the automotive industry and why is it seen as a starting point for growth?

The automotive industry, the traditional core business of thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering, is currently undergoing profound transformation and structural change. This presents a challenge for traditional plant engineering companies, but Agile Robots views it as a major opportunity. The company intends to reposition thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering and, in doing so, tap into further market segments. This means that Agile Robots will not only continue the existing automotive business but will also actively develop new industries and application areas. Furthermore, thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering's North American business offers Agile Robots the opportunity to gain a stronger foothold in the large US market and consolidate its North American market position. The automotive industry will thus serve as a starting point for broader growth across multiple industrial sectors.

What experience has Agile Robots gained in implementing robotics solutions over the past five years?

Over the past five years, Agile Robots has gained extensive experience worldwide implementing robotics solutions for clients across diverse industries, primarily in the consumer electronics and automotive sectors. However, it's crucial to understand that these implementations went beyond simply installing individual robots. Agile Robots focused on transforming and fundamentally redesigning entire production lines, consistently striving to shorten innovation cycles and continuously optimize client production. This comprehensive transformation approach demonstrates the depth of services Agile Robots offers and distinguishes it from mere robot installers. Agile Robots acts as a true transformation partner for its clients.

How does Agile Robots describe its integrated portfolio and what components does it include?

Agile Robots' integrated portfolio combines several components from a single source, setting it apart from many competitors. Firstly, the portfolio includes robotics hardware—the physical robot systems used for a wide variety of applications. Secondly, it offers specialized software that enables intelligent control and optimization of the robots. A key component is the comprehensive data collected from the use and operation of these systems, which is used for continuous improvement. Of particular note is Agile Robots' in-house manufacturing, meaning the company offers everything from concept and development to production and service from a single source. This integrated offering is supported by one of the industry's largest research and development teams, with over 1,000 AI and robotics experts who continuously work on improving and further developing these solutions.

What synergies will result from the acquisition of thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering?

The acquisition of thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering opens up significant synergies for Agile Robots, impacting several levels. On a technological level, Agile Robots strengthens its mechanical engineering expertise by integrating thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering's long-standing know-how. Geographically, the company expands its global network to include established locations and supply chains in all key industrial markets. This is particularly valuable, as establishing supply chains and site networks takes time. With the acquisition, Agile Robots also benefits from thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering's decades of industry experience. Of particular importance are thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering's close partnerships with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), which play a central role in the industry. These established relationships and the trust built up over years can be directly leveraged for Agile Robots.

Which new industries can thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering now tap into?

The collaboration with Agile Robots opens up opportunities for thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering to enter several new sectors that are experiencing significantly stronger growth than the traditional automotive industry. The consumer electronics sector represents a major growth market where the demands for automation and flexibility are increasing dramatically. Medical technology is another promising sector, as it requires highly precise and flexible automation solutions and is experiencing rising demand. Intralogistics, i.e., automated warehousing and material handling within companies, is also a growth area with enormous potential, gaining particular importance in times of e-commerce and changing supply chains. Together, these new sectors offer thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering and Agile Robots attractive opportunities to diversify their business portfolio and become less dependent on the cyclical automotive industry.

What end-to-end expertise results from the acquisition?

The strengthened end-to-end expertise of the combined group means that the company can offer customers comprehensive, single-source solutions covering the entire process from start to finish. This expertise ranges from industrial robots, i.e., classic manipulators, to autonomous mobile robots that can navigate independently and understand their environment. It also includes plant integration, meaning the ability to integrate all components into existing or new production systems. This means that Agile Robots and thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering together can cover a large portion of the requirements of a modern production facility without the need for the customer to involve additional external partners. This integration is a significant advantage for customers, as it reduces complexity and ensures consistent accountability.

Is Agile Robots planning to develop new product solutions together with thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering?

Yes, both companies plan to jointly develop new and modular system solutions. The focus is on modularity, meaning that solutions can be flexibly combined and adapted to different requirements. These modular system solutions are intended to benefit from the combined strengths of both companies: Agile Robots' AI and robotics expertise and thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering's experience in plant engineering and project management. The development of modular solutions is of great importance, as it enables faster market response and more efficient delivery of customer solutions.

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What benefits do customers gain from the strengthened combination of both companies?

Customers benefit in several ways from the merger of Agile Robots and thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering. First, they gain access to significantly expanded end-to-end expertise, ranging from industrial robots and autonomous mobile robots to plant integration. This means customers can address their challenges holistically with a single partner. The combination of Agile Robots' innovations in robotics, software, and system integration with thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering's long-standing industrial know-how and plant engineering expertise enables targeted value creation for their joint customers. This leads to better overall solutions, shorter implementation times, and a higher success rate in the execution of automation projects.

When was thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering founded and how has the company developed?

Thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering has a long and distinguished history in European industry. The company was founded in 1950 in Bremen under the name Johann A. Krause. Establishing the company in Bremen, a major industrial city on the Weser River, was a significant step. Johann A. Krause quickly established itself as a key machine manufacturer for the automotive industry in Germany and Europe. In 1989, Thyssen Industrie AG acquired 100% of the company's shares, accelerating its growth. The acquisition by Thyssen also spurred geographic expansion, particularly in North America. This transformed the company into a globally active player in the automotive supply industry. Today, thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering is among the world's leading providers of automated production systems and enjoys a strong reputation for the quality and reliability of its solutions.

How will the workforce of thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering develop after the takeover?

The goal of the acquisition is to secure and further expand the existing skills and high level of engineering expertise of the thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering workforce. The approximately 650 experts joining Agile Robots through the acquisition bring valuable specialist knowledge and experience. Following the acquisition, the company will operate as Krause Automation within the Agile Robots Group. The choice of the name Krause Automation is historically significant, as it refers back to the founder, Johann A. Krause, from 1950 and thus honors the company's long tradition and continuity. This choice of name underscores that this is not about dissolution or takeover, but rather a respectful integration that preserves the company's heritage and continuity.

When will the transaction be completed and what is the purchase price?

The transaction is subject to approval by the relevant regulatory authorities. This is a standard condition for acquisitions of this magnitude, as authorities must assess whether the takeover raises any competition concerns or other regulatory issues. The necessary regulatory approvals are expected to be received in the coming months. Both parties, Agile Robots and thyssenkrupp AG, have agreed to maintain confidentiality regarding the purchase price. This is standard practice in acquisition negotiations and serves to protect the business interests of both sides. The exact purchase price will therefore not be disclosed.

Which subsidiaries belong to Agile Robots and what do they do?

Agile Robots has a wide range of subsidiaries that together offer a comprehensive portfolio. These subsidiaries include audEERING, which specializes in audio processing and emotional intelligence. Another subsidiary is BÄR Automation, which provides automation solutions. Franka Robotics is a well-known brand that develops and manufactures collaborative robots and intelligent robotics solutions. Idealworks is another subsidiary focused on specific industry challenges. Together, these subsidiaries cover all areas of AI-driven robotics, enabling Agile Robots to serve its customers with comprehensive solutions. This structure allows the company to maintain specialized expertise in various fields while leveraging synergies between different business units.

What does Physical AI mean and why is it considered so important for industry?

Physical AI is a concept that describes the convergence of artificial intelligence and physical robotic systems. It refers to systems that can not only think and decide intelligently, but also implement these intelligent decisions through physical actions. Physical AI means that robots and automated systems, through AI, are able to understand their environment, adapt to new situations, and independently handle complex tasks. Agile Robots and Zhaopeng Chen see this as a tremendous leap in industrial productivity. This is because Physical AI allows production systems to be made significantly more flexible and adapted more quickly to new requirements. While previous automation solutions were often rigid and had to be programmed for specific tasks, Physical AI enables significantly greater flexibility and adaptability. This is particularly important in a fast-paced economy where products and requirements change rapidly. The productivity gains achievable through Physical AI are therefore a significant competitive advantage for companies that use these technologies.

How does the CEO of thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering, Dr. Rolf-Günther Nieberding, assess the acquisition?

Dr. Rolf-Günther Nieberding, CEO of thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering, views the acquisition as a tremendous opportunity for his company. He states that thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering brings its extensive experience in plant engineering and project management to the dynamically growing organization of Agile Robots. This experience encompasses the management of demanding processes, mission-critical projects, and the support of global customer structures. Nieberding emphasizes that Agile Robots' innovations in robotics, software, and system integration, combined with thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering's own expertise, will create targeted added value for their joint customers. He particularly highlights the opportunity to further support the rapid growth of the Agile Robots Group. This demonstrates that the management team at thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering understands the strategic rationale behind this acquisition and is focused on the positive opportunities of collaboration.

When was Agile Robots founded and what are the company's academic roots?

Agile Robots was founded in 2018 as a spin-off from the German Aerospace Center (DLR) in Munich. This is significant, as DLR is one of the leading research centers in robotics and aerospace technology. Its academic spin-off status means that Agile Robots was founded by leading robotics researchers from DLR, giving the company a strong scientific foundation and credibility. The support of such a renowned research partner and the ongoing collaboration with DLR scientists has enabled Agile Robots to develop rapidly and successfully. These academic roots and strong research capabilities distinguish Agile Robots from many other automation companies that originate from traditional industrial backgrounds.

What is the geographical distribution of Agile Robots' locations?

Agile Robots is experiencing rapid global growth and currently has locations in several key regions. The company has sites in Germany, its founding city of Munich, as well as in China and India. With the acquisition of thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering, ten new locations in Europe and North America are being added. This geographic distribution is strategically well-positioned, as it establishes Agile Robots' presence in the world's most important industrial markets: Europe with its strong engineering tradition, Asia with its large production capacities in China and India, and North America with its large and innovative market. This global presence enables Agile Robots to serve customers in all major industrial regions and benefit from local expertise.

What is the significance of the size of Agile Robots' R&D team?

Agile Robots employs one of the largest research and development teams in the AI ​​and robotics industry. Specifically, the company has over 1,000 AI and robotics experts dedicated to research and development. The size of this team is a testament to the company's strong innovative capabilities and underscores its commitment to continuous technological advancement. A large R&D team allows Agile Robots to work on multiple technological fronts simultaneously, developing new solutions and constantly improving existing ones. This is particularly important in industries like robotics and AI, where technological change is accelerating. The size of the R&D team also attracts talented researchers and engineers, providing them with exciting opportunities to work on challenging projects.

Which international talents work at Agile Robots?

Agile Robots employs more than 2,500 highly skilled robotics and AI enthusiasts at various locations worldwide. These employees come from approximately 60 different countries, highlighting the company's internationality and diversity. This international workforce brings together diverse perspectives, experiences, and expertise. This fosters innovation and creativity, as different cultural and professional backgrounds lead to new ideas and solutions. Agile Robots' ability to attract talented professionals from around the globe is a testament to the company's appeal and the quality of the working conditions and career opportunities it offers.

What are the long-term prospects of this acquisition for industrial transformation?

Agile Robots' acquisition of thyssenkrupp Automation Engineering can be seen as a significant step towards the next industrial transformation. The merging of cutting-edge physical AI with decades of expertise in plant engineering and global customer relationships creates a combination that far exceeds the sum of its parts. In the long term, this combination will enable industrial automation to reach entirely new dimensions. Modular, AI-driven systems will allow factories and production facilities to become significantly more flexible, respond more quickly to market changes, and continuously optimize their production. This contributes to a transformation in which intelligence and flexibility become key characteristics of industrial production. This is particularly significant for Germany as an industrial location, as it demonstrates that technological leadership and innovation originate and thrive in Germany. The acquisition, which is being made from within Germany, underscores Germany's role in shaping the future of industrial automation.

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