KION acquires 70% of Smart Innovation NV to industrialise autonomous pallet trucks
KION acquired 70% of Colruyt Group’s Belgian Smart Innovation NV robotics operation, creating an Antwerp automation centre to develop and industrialise self-driving pallet-truck technology for EMEA markets.
Evidence notes
- Colruyt Group retains a 30% minority interest in Smart Innovation NV.
- The technology combines Colruyt-developed software intelligence with STILL vehicle integration.
- Autonomous STILL pallet trucks based on the programme have operated in two Colruyt distribution centres for two years.
Company context
KION Group supplies forklifts, warehouse automation and material-handling systems through brands including Linde, STILL and Dematic.