PARIS—EssilorLuxottica (Reuters: ESLX.PA) has announced the acquisition of Automation & Robotics (A&R), a Belgium-based company that specializes in the design and manufacture of automated systems for optical lens quality control, serving both mass production facilities and prescription laboratories. Operating since 1983, the company is known for its advanced optical metrology and proprietary technology, the announcement stated, noting that “With a proven track record of innovation—ranging from high-precision machine applications to sophisticated software solutions—A&R brings deep expertise across the value-chain. This encompasses R&D, software development, manufacturing, distribution and deployment, along with related services.”
“The integration of A&R into EssilorLuxottica’s portfolio of industrial solutions marks another milestone in our ongoing journey to set new standards of excellence in our industry,” commented Francesco Milleri, chairman and chief executive officer, and Paul du Saillant, deputy chief executive officer at EssilorLuxottica. “Sharing a commitment to innovation, precision and service, we will be able to better support the evolving needs of ophthalmic manufacturing, including those of new categories like wearables. This move is a key step toward advancing the future of vision care through quality and performance, by strengthening our technological platform.
Described as a “bolt-on transaction,” the EssilorLuxottica executives advised that the deal further advances the company’s vertical integration, and is aimed at achieving high-quality standards throughout the value chain while optimizing service. The announcement follows on the heels of a recent transaction last month in which EssilorLuxottica announced an agreement with PUcore, a South Korean company, for the acquisition of all assets and entities involved in the development, manufacturing and sale of monomers used in the production of high-index ophthalmic lenses.
Additional details regarding the transaction with A&R were not disclosed.