Schaeffler AG, through its subsidiary Industriewerk Schaeffler INA-Ingenieurdienst GmbH, has signed a definitive agreement to acquire 100% ownership of Dhruva Automation & Controls, an Indian company specializing in smart industrial automation and software solutions across the Asia-Pacific region.
Founded in 2002 by Jaydeep Chougule and headquartered in Pune, Dhruva has established itself as a reliable provider of automation products and services. With a team of 65 professionals, the company has a strong presence in industries such as automotive, plant engineering, biopharmaceuticals, chemical processing, food production, and water management. In addition to its Indian base, Dhruva serves customers in markets including Thailand, Dubai, Vietnam, Bangladesh, and Azerbaijan. The company also operates sales offices in Aurangabad and Kolhapur.
Roberto Henkel, Senior Vice President of Operations Digitalization & IT at Schaeffler, noted that the acquisition strategically complements Schaeffler Digital Solutions’ capabilities. Together, the companies will focus on advancing innovative technologies for “smart factories” such as predictive maintenance, machine data analytics, and sustainability management. Schaeffler plants in India are already benefitting from the combined expertise of both firms.
The acquisition will integrate Dhruva’s operations with Schaeffler, enhancing its ability to provide digital automation solutions while strengthening its position in the Indian and Asia-Pacific markets. Completion of the transaction is anticipated by the fourth quarter of 2024, subject to regulatory approvals and other closing conditions.
Andreas Schick, Chief Operating Officer at Schaeffler AG, stated that this acquisition aligns with Schaeffler’s commitment to digitalization and industrial automation. He emphasized that Dhruva’s expertise would help Schaeffler address the growing challenges of digital transformation while expanding its industrial solutions portfolio.
Dhruva’s founder, Jaydeep Chougule, expressed optimism about the partnership, highlighting that joining forces with Schaeffler will enable his team to accelerate growth and tap into new opportunities while delivering enhanced solutions to customers. The collaboration is expected to further strengthen Dhruva’s market footprint and profitability in the region.
Dhruva Automation & Controls Private Limited, established in 2012, is an ISO 9001:2015 certified engineering organization based in Pune, India. Specializing in industrial automation, control design engineering, software development, and plant-floor IT solutions, the company boasts a team of over 70 engineers with rich domain knowledge. Dhruva Automation & Controls offers comprehensive services, including manufacturing integration, intelligence, and plant data reporting and analytics systems, catering to various industries seeking to enhance operational efficiency through advanced automation and digitization solutions.
Schaeffler AG is a global automotive and industrial supplier headquartered in Herzogenaurach, Germany. Founded in 1946 by brothers Wilhelm and Georg Schaeffler, the company has established itself as a leading manufacturer of high-precision components and systems for engines, transmissions, and chassis, as well as rolling and plain bearing solutions for a wide range of industrial applications. With a workforce of approximately 83,000 employees, Schaeffler operates under renowned brands such as INA, LuK, and FAG, delivering innovative technologies and services that enhance efficiency and sustainability in motion and mobility sectors worldwide.
