ABB to acquire Høglund to expand marine automation offering

ABB has entered into an agreement to acquire the Norwegian marine automation specialist Høglund AS to bolster its existing digital and automation portfolio. The acquisition, which is expected to close in the third quarter of 2026, aims to enhance ABB's service capabilities across various vessel segments by integrating Høglund’s proven Integrated Automation System (IAS). This move is significant for the maritime sector as it consolidates advanced monitoring and control technologies designed to improve operational performance and energy efficiency on modern ships.

ABB announced its intent to acquire Høglund AS from the Eitzen Group, with the transaction slated for completion in Q3 2026 pending customary regulatory approvals. Headquartered in Tønsberg, Norway, Høglund employs more than 80 people across its global operations in Norway, Poland, Romania, and China. Upon closing, the company will be integrated into ABB’s Marine & Ports division, though the specific financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed.

Høglund specializes in an Integrated Automation System (IAS) that utilizes ABB’s own 800M and S800 control system hardware platforms. This modular and scalable solution is designed to handle complex on-board tasks including automation, monitoring, and control by aggregating data from engines, power generators, and cargo systems. To date, the technology has been deployed on more than 600 vessels, and the company reported annual revenues of close to 30 million euros for the 2025 fiscal year.

Rune Braastad, President of ABB’s Marine & Ports division, noted that Høglund’s portfolio will provide scalable solutions to support the company's growth ambitions in the maritime sector. Peter Morsbach, CEO of Høglund, expressed that joining ABB represents a significant new chapter for the firm’s technology, which was already built on ABB's hardware foundations. The integration is expected to provide Høglund’s existing customers with access to ABB’s extensive global service network and broader automation expertise.

For the wider marine and shipping industry, this acquisition highlights the increasing importance of integrated digital systems in optimizing vessel performance. By combining Høglund’s specialized focus on automation with ABB’s global reach, the deal is positioned to drive advancements in safety and energy efficiency. This consolidation reflects a trend toward more sophisticated, data-driven operational environments as shipowners seek to meet modern demands for performance and sustainability.