Hexagon expands in machine automation

Hexagon has entered into an agreement for the acquisition of the entire share capital of Scanlaser AB in Sweden and Scanlaser AS in Norway. Scanlaser is the leading supplier of measuring and positioning systems for the Scandinavian construction industry. Scanlaser offers sales, assembly and support services of machine automation systems for construction machines among others. In addition, the company offers a product portfolio that includes sophisticated GPS based three dimensional systems.

Scanlaser AB and Scanlaser AS combined turnover is approximately 120 MSEK and has the last couple of years shown an annual growth of about 35 percent. The companies' earnings are consolidated from 1 May 2006 and will positively contribute to Hexagon's earnings from start.

The acquisition of Scanlaser is part of Hexagon's growth strategy and Hexagon's commitment to global expansion within machine automation technology. Scanlaser's strength in one-, two- or three dimensional measuring and positioning systems complements Hexagon's subsidiary Leica Geosystems' strong product portfolio of three dimensional solutions. Scanlaser will operate as an independent organization within the business area Hexagon Measurement Technologies. Scanlaser's knowledge in installation and support services will be applied globally.

During the last three years the world market for machine automation has grown at a rate of about 25 per cent per year and can today be estimated to a size of approximately 2 000 MSEK. Market growth is driven particularly by the need for increased efficiency in infrastructural projects across the world.