Metso acquires material handling technology supplier

Finland-based Metso Corp., whose equipment manufacturing business units include offerings for the aggregates production sector, has signed an agreement to acquire Australia-based Brouwer Engineering, a privately owned company specializing in automation, control systems and electrical solutions for bulk material handling applications.

Metso says it already has extensive experience in bulk material handling equipment and service, but Brouwer Engineering’s electrical and control system capabilities “will further strengthen Metso’s position to provide a more comprehensive range of solutions to its customers.”

While the acquisition initially strengthens Metso’s bulk material handling services business in Australia, it says there remains the potential to expand those capabilities globally.

“This acquisition is an important step toward Metso Services’ ambition to strengthen our automation and control capabilities,” says Sami Takaluoma, president of the firm’s services business area. “Brouwer’s expertise complements Metso’s capabilities in large mechanical upgrade projects. Together, we will offer comprehensive service packages for bulk material handling equipment upgrades and ensure fast commissioning. We are delighted to welcome our new colleagues to Metso, and we look forward to starting a journey of collaboration to become our industry’s preferred services provider.”

Metso has installed 8,000 machines globally, with much of that capacity installed for mining and aggregate customers.

“We are excited about the acquisition and the opportunities it will bring,” says Hu Sciberras, managing director of Brouwer Engineering. “The acquisition is a great opportunity for our employees to leverage their technical expertise, and as a part of Metso our offering can be scaled up globally."

The acquisition is expected to close in August and the parties have agreed not to disclose the transaction value, which Metso says “has no material impact” on its financials.