The takeover of ebm‑papst's Industrial Drive Technology (IDT) division by Siemens AG has been successfully completed. Moving forward, the division will operate under the name "Mechatronic Systems" as part of Siemens. With approximately 650 employees, the division specializes in intelligent, integrated mechatronic systems in the safety extra-low voltage range, as well as innovative motion control systems used in applications such as free-moving, driverless transport systems. This acquisition is designed to complement the Siemens Xcelerator portfolio and further strengthen Siemens’ position as a leading provider of flexible factory automation solutions.
In March 2024, the ebm‑papst Group announced its intention to sell the IDT division to Siemens AG, and both parties signed an agreement to that effect. Now that the transaction has been completed, IDT will benefit from expanded global market access through Siemens’ larger international sales organization, opening new opportunities for innovation and continued business growth. All employees of the division have transitioned to Siemens as part of the acquisition. The purchase price remains undisclosed by mutual agreement.
The sale of the IDT division is part of the consistent implementation of ebm‑papst’s corporate strategy, Making the Future Together, which has been in place since 2022. This strategy focuses on strengthening the company’s core air and heating technology business, driving transformation through sustainability and digitalization, and expanding its global presence.
"The past 15 months have clearly demonstrated the strength and dedication of our colleagues at IDT. Together with Siemens, they successfully executed a highly complex project with outstanding commitment and professionalism. Yesterday, we completed the operational transfer as planned—marking a significant milestone. Looking back, we are more confident than ever that this was the right decision and a vital step for the division’s successful international growth. On behalf of the shareholders and management, I would like to thank everyone involved and wish them continued success in the future," said Dr. Klaus Geißdörfer, CEO of the ebm‑papst Group.
The integration of this new portfolio into Siemens' existing automation offering, combined with access to its global sales network, creates new market opportunities and unlocks substantial business potential in the field of intelligent, battery-powered drive and robotic solutions.
"The addition of this portfolio significantly broadens and strengthens our customer offering in the automation and digitalization of production processes for smart factories," explains Achim Peltz, CEO of the Motion Control Business Unit at Siemens Digital Industries. "The integrated mechatronic drive systems enhance flexibility, productivity, and efficiency in the rapidly growing global market for conveyor and autonomous transport systems, such as mobile robots, driverless transport vehicles, and shuttles. Seamless compatibility with Simatic controllers and our software-based safety solution, Safe Velocity, for mobile robotics provides a particularly valuable advantage."