Automated Industrial Robotics Inc. (AIR) has acquired KAON Automation, an Irish industrial automation company, in a strategic move to enhance its presence in the medical and life sciences manufacturing sector.

The acquisition integrates KAON’s expertise in precision assembly, aseptic high-speed filling, and end-of-line automation into AIR’s global operations.

Founded in 2005, KAON Automation is known for delivering bespoke automation solutions for regulated medical applications. Its modular system architectures allow flexible, scalable, and repeatable production environments, particularly in high-throughput systems requiring accuracy, uptime, and consistency. The company has combined central transport platforms with aseptic filling technology to develop next-generation systems that integrate high-speed filling with zero-touch change-over.

The acquisition adds depth to AIR’s unified operating model, now spanning approximately 450,000ft² with over 550 employees across the United States, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. Supported by Ares Private Equity funds, AIR pursues organic growth alongside selective acquisitions to strengthen its global automation platform.

“KAON is a high-quality business with strong technical depth, long-standing customer relationships and a culture that aligns closely with AIR’s values,” said AIR Executive Chairman Brian Klos and CEO Darragh de Stonndún. “Their strengths in precision assembly and liquid filling technologies support our strategy of building a company that can consistently deliver high-quality, scalable solutions in regulated environments.”

KAON co-founders Garreth Finlay and Fergus Hynes added, “Joining AIR marks an important new chapter for KAON. Becoming part of AIR gives our team new scale and resources to advance our expansion while staying true to the values that have made KAON a trusted automation partner for our clients.”

Explore how AIR is scaling medical manufacturing automation with this strategic acquisition. In the complete article.