Audacity IB advises on sale of Owens Design to Automated Industrial Robotics Inc.

Audacity IB advised Owens Design, a Silicon Valley-based custom automation solutions developer, on its sale to Automated Industrial Robotics Inc. (AIR). The acquisition enhances AIR's presence in the semiconductor industry and leverages Owens Design's expertise in ultra-high-precision handling, clean room facilities, and quality management systems. Audacity IB served as exclusive sell-side financial advisor to Owens Design, led by Jeffrey Shippy. The terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

In a strategic move that underscores the growing importance of industrial automation, Automated Industrial Robotics Inc. (AIR) has acquired Owens Design, a leading developer of custom automation solutions based in Silicon Valley. The acquisition, advised by Audacity IB, aims to significantly bolster AIR's presence in the semiconductor industry and leverage Owens Design's expertise in ultra-high-precision handling, clean room facilities, and quality management systems.

Audacity IB, a boutique M&A investment bank, served as the exclusive sell-side financial advisor to Owens Design. Jeffrey Shippy, Founder and CEO of Audacity IB, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, "AIR is the ideal partner for our client, and we are excited about what lies ahead for the company and its influence on the future of industrial automation and robotics" [1].

Founded in 1983, Owens Design has been instrumental in accelerating production and commercialization for high-tech companies. With a portfolio of over 3,000 bespoke tools and a team of approximately 100 experienced professionals operating from a 60,000-square-foot facility, Owens Design has built a reputation for engineering excellence and proven development processes.

The acquisition of Owens Design by AIR is expected to enhance the latter's capabilities in the semiconductor manufacturing space. AIR, which currently has over 530 employees and an automation hub footprint of over 400,000 square feet globally, aims to apply Owens Design’s expertise in ultra-high-precision handling, clean room facilities, and leading quality management systems to other key end markets, including medical products and pharmaceuticals.

The transaction, led by Jeffrey Shippy, was completed with the terms remaining undisclosed. Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP served as legal counsel to Owens Design. Bob Fung, Chief Executive Officer of Owens Design, commended Audacity IB for their tireless commitment and energy throughout the process, stating that their ability to move swiftly while focusing on the details ensured the best possible outcome [1].

This acquisition underscores the growing importance of industrial automation and robotics in the semiconductor industry. As the demand for advanced manufacturing solutions continues to rise, companies like AIR and Owens Design are at the forefront of innovation, positioning themselves to capitalize on the growing market for automation technologies.

References:

[1] https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20250820090159/en/Audacity-IB-Advises-on-the-Sale-of-Silicon-Valley-Based-Owens-Design-to-Automated-Industrial-Robotics-Inc.