- Clipperton acted as the sole financial advisor to Belgium-based Automation & Robotics, the global leader in the design and manufacture of automated systems for optical lens quality control, on its sale to EssilorLuxottica.
- This transaction highlights Clipperton’s expertise in advising technology leaders at the forefront of Industry 4.0, combining advanced automation, robotics, and digital transformation to redefine manufacturing standards.
Our client
- Headquartered in Belgium and operating since 1983, A&R has built a strong reputation in advanced optical metrology thanks to proprietary technologies, supporting lens manufacturers in the digital transformation of their production processes.
- With a proven track record of innovation, ranging from high-precision machine applications to sophisticated software solutions, A&R brings deep expertise across the value chain. This encompasses R&D, software development, manufacturing, distribution, and deployment, along with related services.
Deal Rationale
- The acquisition of A&R by EssilorLuxottica is driven by a shared commitment to innovation, precision, and service, aimed at advancing the future of vision care. By integrating A&R into its portfolio of industrial solutions, EssilorLuxottica strengthens its technological platform and enhances its ability to meet the evolving needs of the ophthalmic manufacturing industry, including emerging segments such as wearables.
- “The integration of A&R into EssilorLuxottica’s portfolio of industrial solutions marks another milestone in our ongoing journey to set new standards of excellence in our industry. This move is a key step towards advancing the future of vision care through quality and performance, by strengthening our technological platform”, commented Francesco Milleri, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and Paul du Saillant, Deputy Chief Executive Officer at EssilorLuxottica.
Clipperton Strengthens Track Record in Industry 4.0
- This transaction highlights Clipperton’s expertise in advising technology leaders at the forefront of Industry 4.0, combining advanced automation, robotics, and digital transformation to redefine manufacturing standards.
- Other recent transactions advised by Clipperton in this industry include Braincube’s €83m investment by Scottish Equity Partners and Bpifrance, or VinZero’s sale to Monnoyeur Group.
Deal Team
- Nicolas von Bülow, Managing Partner
- Thibaut Revel, Managing Partner
- Lucas Pingard, Vice President
- Charles Gasquet, Associate
- Camille Servant, Analyst
About Clipperton
Clipperton is a leading pan-European investment bank dedicated to technology and growth companies, with offices in Paris, Berlin, Munich, London, and Amsterdam, as well as partnerships in the USA, China, Italy, and Spain. We provide strategic and financial advisory to entrepreneurs, corporates, and top-tier investors in Europe who are looking to execute strategic M&A, private equity, private placements, and debt financing transactions. Founded in 2003, we have completed over 500 deals with fast-growing technology start-ups, blue-chip corporates, and renowned financial investors.