How will ABB sale impact AI-driven robotics market?
In light of the recent news about the planned acquisition of ABB’s robotics unit by SoftBank, Samantha Mou, a Senior Analyst for industrial robotics at market intelligence firm Interact Analysis notes that the other ‘Big 4′ robotics vendors may now accelerate their activities in the AI robotics space.
“Considering the intensive competition in traditional robotics, established manufacturers like ABB will need to lead the charge in AI-driven robotics to protect their margins,” she said. “However, achieving this will require significant investment. The substantial long-term R&D costs may be a key factor behind ABB’s decision to sell its robotics business.
“This move may push ABB’s competitors, particularly the other ‘Big 4′ players, to accelerate collaborations with AI and software companies or bring in investors, ensuring they have the resources to stay competitive in the AI-driven robotics space.”
Looking at the acquisition itself, Samantha commented: “SoftBank has yet to establish a successful track record in robotics investments. This deal marks its first acquisition in the industrial robotics area, and it remains to be seen whether its IT-industry culture can effectively integrate with the industrial engineering tradition at ABB Robotics.
“The deal valued ABB Robotics at $5.4 billion, with an implied FY24 EV/EBITDA multiple of 17.2x, broadly in line with other major industrial transactions (typically 12-18x),” she added. “Midea’s 15x multiple for KUKA suggests SoftBank is paying a modest premium – negligible given the current AI robotics hype cycle, where emerging players command far higher valuations.
