SSI Schaefer Consolidates in Benelux with ABM Takeover
4th August 2017
SSI Schaefer has acquired ABM (Automation Beyond Measure) in a bid to boost is position in the Benelux countries.
“With the purchase of ABM, we are organically expanding our range of services in Benelux. With the synergies created, we can deliver to the Benelux region holistic concepts in keeping with our company’s philosophy,” explains Harrie Swinkels, CEO of SSI Schaefer Automation GmbH, on the strategic thinking behind the takeover of ABM. “Localisation and customisation are the keys to success. By joining with ABM, we are even closer to the customer and will also benefit from ABM’s strong expertise in the field of individual picking solutions.”
ABM was founded in 1994 as part of the Alltech Group with a strategic focus on Pick to Light subsystems. The company has since developed the picking technology sector and has its finger on the pulse of the latest trends with cutting-edge technologies such as Pick to Colour, Pick to Image, and Pick to Label. In 2009, ABM also introduced a seamless human-machine interface (HMI) known as COMPASS Pick to Graphics. The PickART concept, introduced in 2012, combines smart batching, intelligent navigation, user-friendly communication, and an intuitive and flexible drop cart architecture. Since 2014, the multi-disciplinary team of engineers has been developing and implementing holistic, customer-oriented solutions, ranging from storage systems and transport concepts to software integration services. “In addition to its Benelux home market, ABM serves customers in Great Britain, France, Spain, and the Czech Republic. Our core sectors include food retail, food & beverage, fashion, and e-commerce,” says Jan Maertens, Managing Director of ABM. “We are convinced that we can be a strong force in driving forward SSI Schaefer’s local know-how and shaping a consistent market-sector approach in the Benelux region. We are delighted to have gained such a strong partner, both strategically and commercially.”
Jan Maertens (r.), Managing Director of ABM, and Thomas Kamphausen (l.), CFO of SSI Schaefer.