Swiss engineering conglomerate ABB has agreed to acquire British automation firm Rotork in a transaction valued at $5.5 billion (approximately £4.1 billion).
The deal represents the largest acquisition in the Zurich-based group’s history, marking a significant shift in strategy after years of portfolio reshaping that prioritized divestments and smaller, targeted purchases.
Under the terms of the agreement, ABB will pay 506 pence per share for Rotork, the Bath-headquartered manufacturer of electric actuators and control systems.
The acquisition is expected to strengthen ABB’s position in the industrial automation sector, particularly in areas such as oil and gas, water, and power generation, where Rotork holds a leading market share.
The move underscores ABB’s intent to scale its automation capabilities through inorganic growth.
While the company has previously focused on shedding non-core businesses to improve margins and operational focus, this large-scale purchase indicates confidence in the long-term demand for industrial automation solutions.