ABB Acquires Gresin To Expand Press Automation Solutions

2012-12-12 - Growing trend to refurbish press-shops in the automotive industry drives demand for press automation

Zurich, Switzerland - ABB, the leading power and automation technology group, announced recently the acquisition of Gresin Grupo Estudios Industriales, S.A.L., a privately owned company that specializes in refurbishment solutions for mechanical presses. The acquisition is in line with ABB's strategy to expand its global offering of robotics solutions.

Gresin is a strong European player in the area of press automation refurbishments and technology enhancements. It has profound know-how of the applied technologies in the press industry. Founded in 1994, Gresin is headquartered in Oiartzun, Spain, and is renowned for its expertise in press engineering.

The company designs sub-assemblies, and retrofit and upgrade packages while it outsources manufacturing. Both parties agreed not to disclose financial details of the transaction. Gresin’s 16 employees are joining ABB and will continue to play an important role in the future success of the company. Gresin will be integrated into ABB’s Robotics business unit in the Discrete Automation and Motion division.

“This acquisition gives ABB access to valuable expertise that ideally complements our own existing offering in press automation,” said Per Vegard Nerseth, head of ABB's Robotics business unit. In ABB, Gresin will become a center of excellence related to mechanical press refurbishment. Together ABB and Gresin can provide their customers productivity improvements when upgrading existing presses, as well as state-of-the-art high speed solutions for new presses.

“ABB's brand recognition and strong global presence will accelerate the growth of a combined Gresin - ABB offering, and provide access to new customers and partners,’’ said, Jesús María García Garay, Gresin’s managing director. “Gresin’s existing business is complemented by ABB’s strong offering of discrete automation, global manufacturing footprint, as well as its supply, marketing and service network.”