Intuitive's European Expansion: A Strategic Move for Growth

Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (ISRG), a global leader in minimally invasive care and the pioneer of robotic-assisted surgery, has announced its plans to establish a direct presence in Italy, Spain, Portugal, Malta, and San Marino, and associated territories. This strategic move is set to strengthen Intuitive's market position in Europe and drive growth in the region. The company has entered into an agreement, subject to regulatory approvals, with the current Intuitive technology distributors ab medica, Abex, Excelencia Robotica, and their affiliates to purchase their Intuitive product-related business. The transaction is expected to close in 2026, after approvals have been received and closing conditions met.

Intuitive's CEO, Gary Guthart, expressed excitement about the opportunity to bring safe, minimally invasive care to more patients across Europe. He stated, "Having a direct presence in Italy, Spain, Portugal, Malta, and San Marino, and associated territories allows us to deepen our understanding of unique customer needs in these countries." Upon deal closure in 2026, the da Vinci and Ion business of ab medica, Abex, and Excelencia Robotica will be wholly owned by Intuitive and integrated into Intuitive's European commercial and marketing organization, led by Senior Vice President and General Manager Dirk Barten.

Barten emphasized the importance of developing direct relationships with customers in these countries to build greater patient access to minimally invasive care. He acknowledged the strong business and dedication provided by the acquired companies and their leadership, stating, "Intuitive is grateful for the years of strong business and dedication these companies have provided—their leadership has helped establish robotic technology with physicians and their patients in Europe. We look forward to integrating these teams upon deal closure."

ab medica's CEO, Francesca Cerruti, expressed pride in having introduced robotic-assisted surgery more than two decades ago in Italy and Southern Europe. She stated, "In 2026, we will continue on our path of innovation in service of patients, care, and healthcare professionals." Cerruti also highlighted the company's commitment to becoming producers of solutions and services for smart and digital health, expressing gratitude for the trust placed in them by Intuitive.

Intuitive's direct presence in these countries is expected to have a positive impact on the company's overall revenue growth and market share in Europe. By acquiring the da Vinci and Ion distribution businesses, Intuitive will be able to deepen its understanding of unique customer needs and develop direct relationships with customers, which is critical for building greater patient access to minimally invasive care. This direct presence will allow Intuitive to expand its market penetration and increase its installed base of da Vinci Surgical Systems, which will drive recurring revenue streams from services, accessories, and upgrades. Additionally, Intuitive's investment in these markets reflects the company's commitment to bringing safe, minimally invasive care to more patients across Europe, which is likely to further enhance its reputation and market position in the region.



In conclusion, Intuitive's direct presence in Italy, Spain, Portugal, Malta, and San Marino is a strategic move that will strengthen the company's market position in Europe and drive growth in the region. By acquiring the da Vinci and Ion distribution businesses, Intuitive will be able to deepen its understanding of unique customer needs, develop direct relationships with customers, and expand its market penetration. This move is expected to have a positive impact on Intuitive's overall revenue growth and market share in Europe, further enhancing the company's reputation and market position in the region.