ABB announced today (April 17) its intention to spin off its robotics division, proposing a full separation of the business through a dividend in-kind to shareholders.
The company plans to present the proposal to shareholders at its Annual General Meeting in 2026, with the aim of completing the listing in Q2 of that year.
The spin-off would result in ABB Robotics becoming a separately listed entity, with shares distributed proportionally to ABB shareholders. The move is part of ABB’s ongoing strategy to streamline its portfolio and enable greater strategic focus within its divisions.
According to the company, more than 80% of the division’s offerings are enabled by software and artificial intelligence.
The division has around 7,000 employees and reported a revenue of US$2.3bn in 2024, representing about 7% of ABB Group revenues.
It achieved an Operational EBITA margin of 12.1% last year and has consistently maintained double-digit margins under ABB’s decentralised “ABB Way” operating model since 2019.
ABB stated that the spin-off will launch with a strong capital structure and regional manufacturing hubs located in Sweden, China, and the US.
The company also added that market conditions have stabilised after a period of volatility, contributing to recent order growth.
In conjunction with the spin-off, ABB’s Machine Automation division—currently part of the Robotics & Discrete Automation business area—will be integrated into the Process Automation business area beginning in the first quarter of 2026.
The planned listing and restructuring are subject to shareholder approval at the 2026 AGM.
Peter Voser, chairman at ABB, said: “The board believes listing ABB Robotics as a separate company will optimise both companies’ ability to create customer value, grow and attract talent.
“Both companies will benefit from a more focused governance and capital allocation. ABB will continue to focus on its long-term strategy, building on its leading positions in electrification and automation.”
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