Kistler Group acquires IOS GmbH

Kistler Group is taking over Aachen-based IOS GmbH, provider of MES software and hardware systems, with immediate effect. In doing so, Kistler can now offer the manufacturing industry a modular production monitoring system that covers the entire value chain, from sensors to production planning and control.

Monitoring and data acquisition products for the manufacturing industry are already a key part of Kistler’s portfolio of integrated quality assurance solutions. The acquisition of IOS’ MES software however takes Kistler to the next level. Rolf Sonderegger, the CEO of the Kistler Group, remarks: "Having our own MES solution that can seamlessly link management and production levels is strategically important to us as a solution provider. In the future, our customers will benefit from a modular all-in-one solution that provides monitoring, controlling and reporting functions across the entire value chain." The initial focus will be on applications in plastics processing. Later on Kistler’s MES competency will be extended to other business areas.

Acquiring IOS GmbH gives Kistler access to more than 20 years’ experience in the development of MES systems. “IOS is a longstanding partner; we share a number of customers and successful projects,” adds Rolf Sonderegger. However, in addition to gaining valuable know-how, the acquisition also aims to establish a competence centre. This centre will further strengthen the close working relationship with the renowned scientific institute at the RWTH Aachen University, a well-known think tank for Industry 4.0. The expertise of the IOS team in Aachen can now be incorporated into the Kistler brand in an international context. In order to boost product development in the field of Industry 4.0 and the IoT (Internet-of-Things), Kistler is already moving forward with plans to expand the site.

The takeover is an obvious win-win situation for the two companies and their customers. Kistler sensors and systems will now be able to feed relevant process and quality data into the higher-level MES system. Customers in turn will benefit from a scalable single-source solution that operates without expensive and complicated system integration. The combination of ERP data and data from Kistler’s sensors generates a comprehensive overview of production processes. Rolf Sonderegger concludes: “We are focusing on maximum economic efficiency and transparency in production based on efficient data acquisition, control and documentation.”