Manitou acquires robotics specialist

Manitou Group hereby announces the acquisition of Sitia’s robotics division.

From left: Clément Aubry Tardif, Director of Sitia’s Robotics division; and Julien Waechter, VP R&D Manitou Group. (Image: Manitou).

This transaction is in line with the Manitou’s newly Lift strategic roadmap unveiled in late April. A such, the company said it is positioning robotics at the core of its innovation strategy through the investment in a proven specialist in the domain. 

The aquisition will see seven team members, including those with doctorates and engineers, who are experts in the development of robotics, integrate into Manitou Group’s R&D department. One of the team’s previous projects has been the development of an autonomous agricultural tractor, the Trektor. (The Trektor machine is not included in the acquisition). 

It also encompasses the intellectual property of Sitia’s robotics division, which will enable the group to expedite the development of high value-added products and services, addressing the evolving needs of its customers.

Following the deal, the group will set up a new division Manitou Group Robotics. Julien Waechter, Vice President of R&D at Manitou Group, added, “Sitia has been a partner with whom we have collaborated for nearly a decade, and which has embarked on its transformation towards cutting-edge robotic activity.

“Through this acquisition, we shall enrich our capabilities with a team of recognized experts, benefit from proven technological building blocks, coupled with Manitou Group’s established know-how.

“Our aspiration is to thus fortify our leadership position to continue innovating and to advance further in the development of solutions, thereby meeting the evolving expectations of our customers.”

Clément Aubry Tardif, Director of the Robotics division, added, “We are delighted to dedicate our expertise to the service of a leader in material handling. The team is particularly enthusiastic about the prospect of contributing to Manitou Group’s new strategic roadmap.”