The Swiss-Finnish ABB Group is expanding its portfolio in the field of onboard automation: the Norwegian specialist Høglund is being acquired from the Eitzen Group, which also operates in the shipping sector.
ABB announced today that the specialist, based in Tønsberg, Norway, is set to complement ABB’s existing automation offering for customers in the maritime sector and support its growth ambitions across various ship categories. The transaction is expected to be completed in the third quarter of 2026 – subject to the usual regulatory approvals – and encompasses Høglund’s global operations as well as its more than 80 employees in Norway, Poland, Romania and China.
Høglund is currently owned by the Eitzen Group, which is also active in the shipping sector and recently caused a stir with a newbuild contract – and will be integrated into ABB’s Marine & Ports division. The parties involved did not disclose any financial details of the transaction. Eitzen had only acquired Høglund at the start of 2023, after a previous takeover attempt by the HAV Group had failed.
Høglund offers an Integrated Automation System (IAS) based on the hardware platform of the ABB 800M and S800 control systems. “The modular and scalable system was developed to meet the requirements of modern ships and handles automation, monitoring and control tasks on board. By consolidating data from engines, power generators and cargo systems, it helps to improve safety, energy efficiency and overall operational performance” – according to the official description. The solution is in use on more than 600 ships. In 2025, the company achieved a turnover of just under €30 million.
Following the acquisition, Høglund’s customers are set to benefit from an expanded geographical presence, additional expertise in the fields of automation and service, and global support from ABB. “This marks a significant new chapter for our employees and technologies,” said CEO Peter Morsbach, “our system is based on ABB technology, and we look forward to becoming part of ABB and continuing to drive forward ship automation for the benefit of our customers.”
“Høglund’s portfolio in the field of marine automation complements ABB’s existing offering with proven and scalable solutions that support our growth ambitions,” said Rune Braastad, Head of ABB’s Marine & Ports division. “Combined with our global reach and service capabilities, we have an excellent foundation for continued success. We look forward to welcoming Høglund’s highly skilled staff to ABB.”
