(COPENHAGEN, Denmark) — Furuno, a global leader in maritime navigation, communication and acoustic systems, has announced the acquisition of Danish company EMRI A/S, specializing in autopilots, steering control, joystick dynamic positioning and maneuvering systems.
Based in Herlev, a suburb to Copenhagen, and founded in 1972, EMRI is a prominent provider of steering control systems, autopilots and track control systems. Its autopilots have been well accepted for almost two decades worldwide, and are today in operation on board 1,000-plus vessels. Steering control systems have also been a key focus of EMRI for many years. Steering gear remote control systems are designed to fit owners’ requirements of safety and ease of operation. EMRI also designs and manufactures joystick dynamic positioning systems with cutting-edge fuel-saving algorithms. EMRI is an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and supplier to several major industrial players with a large installed base.
“We are very pleased to welcome EMRI and our new colleagues to Furuno’s organization," said Muneyuki Koike, senior managing director and divisional general manager, Marine Electronic Products Division of Furuno Electric Co. "The acquisition of EMRI complements our existing and growing presence in the marine market and reinforces our strategy to enhance safety and efficiency at sea, with our core competencies of sensing, processing, communication, and integration, and now with action control systems. I am excited that EMRI’s technology for maneuvering of larger and specialized vessels will open new opportunities for our innovative capabilities.”
“The acquisition marks a milestone in the history of EMRI’s technology, and will accelerate growth opportunities in existing and new technologies together with Furuno, a reputable leader in ship navigation, fish finding and communication systems," said Claus Nortoft Thomsen, managing director and owner of EMRI. "I am very pleased to communicate that the EMRI team is enthusiastic to join forces with Furuno, with whom EMRI has been collaborating for several years, supplying sophisticated autopilots and steering system. We stand to unlock substantial sales synergies abroad thanks to Furuno’s global presence. Our access to Furuno’s technical expertise, innovative technologies, and expanding global reach will provide great opportunities for our staff, as well as new benefits and solutions for our customers.”
The parties have agreed not to disclose the terms of the transaction.