Doosan Robotics Expands Global Reach with ONExia Acquisition and R&D Enhancements

Doosan Robotics acquired a 89.59% stake in US automation engineering firm ONExia for $25.9 million. The deal aims to enhance the company's AI capabilities and solution development, particularly in areas where data-driven intelligence is critical. The acquisition is seen as a key stepping stone toward accelerating Doosan Robotics' global competitiveness in the intelligent robotics market.

Doosan Robotics has taken a significant step towards enhancing its global competitiveness in the intelligent robotics market by acquiring an 89.59% stake in U.S. automation engineering firm ONExia. The deal, valued at approximately USD 25.9 million (KRW 35.6 billion), was finalized with a stock purchase agreement (SPA) and participation in a capital increase [1].

ONExia, founded in 1984, specializes in end-to-end automation services, from system design and manufacturing to implementation. The company has established a strong presence in industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and packaging, delivering solutions that boost productivity and reduce operational costs. In recent years, ONExia has focused on developing its own collaborative robotic systems tailored to end-of-line (EOL) processes, such as palletizing, box assembly, and packaging, which are in high demand across North America. This focus has resulted in consistent average annual sales growth of around 30% [1].

Doosan Robotics views the acquisition as a key stepping stone towards accelerating its global competitiveness in the intelligent robotics market. The move signals a strategic shift from a hardware-focused business model towards a more integrated platform centered on AI and software-based robotics solutions. ONExia brings to the table advanced engineering capabilities, experience in developing industry-specific robotics systems, and 25 years of accumulated automation data and project execution know-how, all of which are expected to enhance Doosan Robotics' AI capabilities and solution development [1].

In parallel with this acquisition, Doosan Robotics is ramping up its investments in internal R&D. The company is in the final stages of recruiting specialized talent across robotics R&D, AI, software development, quality assurance, and corporate strategy. It is also undergoing a structural reorganization of its R&D division, placing greater focus on AI, software, and humanoid technologies. Additionally, a new R&D Innovation Center, designed to provide an optimal development environment, is scheduled for completion within the third quarter of this year [1].

Kevin (Minpyo) Kim, CEO of Doosan Robotics, stated: "This acquisition marks an important milestone as we take tangible steps to strengthen our global presence, internalize AI technologies, and develop future-ready solutions. ONExia's expertise and established position in the U.S. market will create powerful synergies." He added, "To position ourselves as a global leader in intelligent robotics and drive the future of Physical AI, we remain committed to investing in R&D, strategic M&A, and talent" [1].

References:
[1] https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/doosan-robotics-accelerates-push-to-become-an-ai-robot-solutions-leader-302514752.html