ABB strengthens industrial emission measurement portfolio with Födisch Group acquisition

On August 27, 2024, the technology leader in electrification and automation, ABB, announced an agreement to acquire Födisch Group, a leading developer of advanced measurement and analytical solutions for the energy and industrial sectors. This acquisition will enhance ABB's offerings in continuous emission monitoring systems (CEMS) and strengthen its position in technology and innovation. By integrating the Födisch Group, ABB aims to expand its portfolio to address customers' most complex measurement challenges.

Födisch Group, headquartered in Markranstädt, Germany, reported revenues of approximately €50 million in 2023 and employs around 250 people. The company operates a 3,000 m² production facility in Markranstädt, with additional sites in Germany, the Netherlands, and China. Födisch Group has built a reputation as a leader in environmental, inspection, and certification solutions for power plants, waste incineration facilities, papers, glass, and cement manufacturing facilities.

The acquisition, subject to customary closing conditions, is expected to be finalised before the end of the year. However, the company has abstained from disclosing the financial details of the transaction.

Jacques Mulbert, President of ABB's Measurement & Analytics division, stated, "The acquisition of Födisch Group underscores ABB's commitment to providing advanced continuous emission monitoring systems that have become vital for companies to monitor and mitigate emissions and comply with environmental regulations."

 "We are very impressed by what the Födisch Group has achieved and are eager to welcome their team to the ABB family. Integrating the Födisch Group into ABB will unlock significant opportunities for new and existing customers."

Födisch Group’s extensive offering complements ABB’s measurement and analytics solutions portfolio with additional continuous gas analysers and dust measurement solutions. Supported by ABB’s global distribution and service network, customers will benefit from a comprehensive suite of solutions that help address the world’s energy and sustainability challenges.

Measurement and analytics technologies provide real-time, reliable process measurement data and insights, which is key to enhancing the sustainability of industrial operations. This empowers businesses to make informed decisions that improve efficiencies and reduce emissions, contributing to a more sustainable future.

Stephan Schumann, CEO of Dr Födisch Umweltmesstechnik AG, the parent company of Födisch Group, said, "Over the years, Födisch Group, with its passionate and highly qualified team, has established a renowned reputation in environmental and process measurement technology in Europe. This acquisition is a testimony of our strong performance in recent years, and leveraging ABB's global footprint will allow us to scale the impact of our offering internationally. This makes us very proud."

Andreas Bösenberg, Managing Director of majority shareholder NORD Holding, said, "We are delighted with the great development of the Födisch Group and are confident that ABB is the right home for the business to continue the strong value creation journey for all stakeholders."

Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS) represent a critical advancement in air pollution monitoring, significantly enhancing control through improved accuracy and transparency. By providing real-time, automated, and highly precise monitoring of industrial emissions, CEMS plays a vital role in strengthening accountability and enforcement mechanisms, ultimately leading to better environmental performance. The system’s ability to promptly detect irregularities and deviations from regulatory standards and accurately identify pollution sources makes it an indispensable tool for industries committed to sustainable practices.

CEMS is particularly crucial in the aluminium industry, as it covers the entire production cycle, from bauxite mining and alumina refining to smelting and casting of finished products. The industry is at a pivotal moment, especially in primary aluminium production at smelters, known for their high energy consumption. Given the escalating energy costs and the significant emissions associated with smelting operations, there is mounting pressure on the industry to adopt more efficient and environmentally responsible practices.