Comau S.p.A. last week said it has agreed to acquire Automha S.p.A., a warehousing and intralogistics automation company, from Trasma S.r.l. Comau said the transaction is a “step toward the creation of a forward-focused Italian industrial automation hub able to innovate and compete in multiple markets.”
“In Comau, we have found a partner who shares our values of quality, innovation, and commitment to customer success,” stated Franco Togni, founder of Automha. “This new chapter represents not only a moment of growth for Automha, but also a continuation of the journey that began in 1979.”
“I look forward to the future that lies ahead, knowing that together with Comau, we will continue to build excellence, expand our global impact, and reach a proper size to keep a leading position in a market that is increasing competitiveness and project dimensions,” he said.
Automha is an Italian company with more than 40 years of experience developing automated storage and retrieval systems (ASRS) to optimize efficiency and reliability across industries. The company claimed that it “combines Italian engineering excellence with a forward-thinking global approach, delivering customized solutions that enhance operational agility for businesses worldwide.”
Automha has four subsidiaries worldwide and manufacturing facilities in Italy and China.
Comau to keep Automha structure
To ensure business continuity, Automha said it will continue to operate with the same structure, management, and strategic vision, keeping people, quality, and innovation at its core. Franco Togni will retain his position as CEO, while Gianni Togni and Roberta Togni, in addition to continuing in their current roles, will join the Comau executive committee to contribute to the ongoing development of both companies.
In parallel, Automha plans to grow and further develop its business with an enhanced geographical footprint and in-house technology competencies. Comau and Automha said their complementary relationship will strengthen their mutual portfolio of projects.
“Expanding our reach, know-how, and technology portfolio through the acquisition of innovative companies such as Automha is a crucial step in Comau’s growth strategy, as defined when we became a stand-alone company and implemented immediately after the closing phase,” said Pietro Gorlier, CEO of Comau.
“In addition to capitalizing on the strong growth potential of warehousing and intralogistics markets, the integration of Automha within Comau will allow us to leverage our combined expertise and resources to accelerate innovation and growth across a wide range of global industrial sectors,” he added.
Comau has designed and developed automation for 50 years. Its portfolio includes products and systems for vehicle manufacturing, with a strong presence in e-mobility. The Turin, Italy-based company also offers advanced robotics and digital systems, as well as project management and consultancy services.
Comau’s Academy offers training in the technical and managerial knowledge needed to face the challenges related to automation and a constantly changing marketplace. The company also has an international network of seven innovation centers and manufacturing plants that span 11 countries and employ 3,800 people.
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One Equity Partners sees diversification potential
Under the terms of the agreement, Comau plans to acquire 100% of Automha shares. The closing of the transaction is subject to the satisfaction of customary conditions, including necessary regulatory approvals. Comau said it expects to close the acquisition in the second quarter of 2025.
This binding agreement is consistent with the strategy behind the recent change in Comau’s shareholder structure. One Equity Partners, an international private equity firm, holds a majority share, enabling Comau to become a standalone company.
“When we invested in Comau, we saw a clear path forward to help the company expand strategically and gain scale,” said Ante Kusurin, partner at One Equity Partners. “M&A [mergers and acquisitions are] a main driver for this, and we identified warehouse, logistics, and handling automation systems as a significant opportunity for this business.”
“The acquisition of Automha is a move toward diversification of Comau’s operations and further taps the company into industrial automation trends improving productivity across many industries,” he said. “We are excited for the opportunity ahead of us as these two complementary companies join forces.”
