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The Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) takes over the majority of the automation specialist iSAM AG. This involves a majority stake in a profitable growth field and the consistent continuation of the strategy focused on growth and innovation.
(Hamburg) To further implement its strategy focused on growth and innovation, Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) is acquiring a majority stake in iSAM AG. Founded in 1983 and based in Mülheim an der Ruhr, the company is a global specialist in automation technology. HHLA is acquiring 80 percent of the shares in iSAM AG, while the remaining 20 percent will remain with three existing managers of the company. Both parties have agreed to keep the purchase price confidential.
Connection for over 20 years
To expand HHLA’s service offerings through the acquisition of shares in iSAM AG, CEO Angela Titzrath states: “HHLA demonstrated the potential of automation over 20 years ago with the commissioning of the Container Terminal Altenwerder. Through this participation, HHLA gains direct access to technological developments in the automation of industrial processes, enabling entry into new innovative business areas. With this transaction, we reaffirm our intention to consistently implement our strategy focused on growth and innovation, even under the special conditions of the Corona pandemic.”
Regarding HHLA’s acquisition of the majority shares, Bernd Mann, shareholder and CEO of iSAM AG, states: “We have known HHLA for over 20 years and have developed the world’s first autonomous large equipment based on GPS and 3D Lidar together with companies in the HHLA group. We look forward to deepening this collaboration and exploring new markets in the automation of container handling under the umbrella of the HHLA group – a technology we have been intensively working on in recent years. HHLA also offers our company, customers, and employees a long-term perspective beyond the founding generation.”
Bulk terminal at Hansaport successfully automated
Currently, iSAM AG employs an interdisciplinary team of 50 employees. The company is present in core markets through subsidiaries in the USA, Australia (Asia), and Canada. Particularly due to its strong position in the Australian market, iSAM was able to increase revenue and profit by 30 percent in 2020 despite the restrictions caused by COVID-19.
iSAM AG has already successfully automated a bulk terminal at Hansaport in the Port of Hamburg through the use of intelligent control software and highly precise 3D laser scanners. Currently, iSAM is working on the prototypical automation of the rail crane 4 at the Container Terminal Altenwerder for the IHATEC project Container Terminal 4.0 and is developing new safety techniques for shared workspaces between humans and machines.
Previous shareholders of iSAM remain on board
The founders and previous shareholders of iSAM AG will continue to be active in responsible positions. Long-time development board member Bernd Mann will take over as CEO from company founder Dr. Jürgen Hellmich, who will continue to lead the American subsidiary. Bernd Jotzo, previously responsible for finance and personnel on the board, will move to the supervisory board. His responsibilities will be taken over by Bernd Mann and Christian Hacks, who will also continue to lead the production department.
About HHLA
Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) is a leading European logistics company. With a dense network of seaport terminals in Hamburg, Odessa, Tallinn, and Trieste, excellent hinterland connections, and associated intermodal hubs in Central and Eastern Europe, HHLA is the logistical and digital hub along the transport flows of the future. The business model relies on innovative technologies and is committed to sustainability.
Photo: © HHLA
