Zebra Technologies to buy Photoneo

IntraLogisteX exhibitor Zebra Technologies, has said that it will acquire developer of 3D machine vision solutions, Photoneo.

This acquisition is expected to enhance Zebra’s footprint in the rapidly growing 3D machine vision segment, which has seen increasing demand across industries such as automotive manufacturing, logistics, and robotics.

Photoneo’s 3D machine vision technology, particularly its vision-guided robotic (VGR) solutions, will complement Zebra’s existing portfolio of sensors, AI-based image processing, and vendor-agnostic software. The acquisition aims to provide customers with a comprehensive suite of solutions for complex applications like bin picking, depalletising, and digital twin creation, as well as high-precision inspection for manufacturing processes.

3D imaging is widely used in robotic applications, particularly in bin picking, where it enables robots to identify and handle objects in unstructured environments. Photoneo’s sensors are compatible with many of the largest robotic manufacturers.

The company has made previous investments in the machine vision space, including its acquisition of Matrox Imaging in June 2022, which bolstered its portfolio of fixed industrial scanners and machine vision sensors.

The combined technologies from Zebra and Photoneo will create a powerful solution for a wide range of customers seeking to integrate 3D vision systems into their operations.

The acquisition follows a successful OEM partnership between Zebra and Photoneo, established in 2024, which expanded Zebra’s 3D sensor portfolio. According to Jan Zizka, CEO of Photoneo, joining Zebra will provide the company with the resources and global reach necessary to accelerate innovation and drive the adoption of 3D machine vision across diverse industries.

The acquisition, which is subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions, is expected to close in the first quarter of 2025. The company intends to fund the transaction using cash on hand. The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed.

Zebra Technologies has engaged A&O Shearman LLP as its legal counsel, while Dentons is representing Photoneo and Evercore Partners International is acting as the financial advisor to Photoneo.

Bill Burns, chief executive officer, Zebra Technologies, said: “Building on Zebra’s expertise in autonomous data capture, inspection software, and deep learning AI capabilities, this combination expands our portfolio of highly differentiated 3D sensors and advanced 3D machine vision software. We look forward to welcoming the Photoneo team to the Zebra family.”