Drives & Controls March 2023

NEWS n www.drivesncontrols.com March 2023 13 THE GERMAN SAFETY-RELATED automation specialist, the Hima Group, has acquired the UK systems integrator Sella Controls. The terms of the deal have not been disclosed. The two companies plan to maintain their focus on safety- related automation, control systems and the digitalisation of functional safety. Sella’s previous owners, John Blackwell and Eddy Turnock, will continue to lead the company as CFO and CSO. Chris Parr, who previously led the process division, will join the management board as CTO. Sella Controls’ 118 employees will stay with the company and there are plans to expand the workforce. Sella will also keep its three locations. The company has two divisions: a Centre of Excellence Rail Solutions, located in Ashby-de-la-Zouch and Coalville; and a Process Solutions division, in Stockport. The company will continue to trade under the Sella Controls name, with the addition of “a Hima company”. “The acquisition of Sella Controls is an important milestone in our Hima growth strategy,” says Hima CEO, Jörg de la Motte. “By joining our forces, we will enhance our global position as a leading supplier for safety-related automation solutions for the process and rail industries.” “Hima has had a long-standing and close relationship with Sella Controls and shares the same vision and values,” adds Hima shareholder, Steffen Philipp. “With Sella Controls, the Hima Group will accelerate its international expansion and strengthen its global competitiveness.” Hima regards Sella Controls’ rail sector expertise and portfolio, in particular, as an good addition to its capabilities, which it intends to market internationally. Sella’s activities in the UK and Ireland process sector will also be expanded, with a focus on the digitalisation of functional safety. Hima says that its existing customers will benefit from more intensive support as a result of the acquisition, while Sella Controls’ customers will have access to a larger service portfolio. Hima buys Sella Controls and plans to expand the business Lamonde Automation Limited Quality Products: Expert Advice +44 (0)20 3026 2670 sales@lamonde.com | www.lamonde.com Easy installation and terminals that make wiring-up simple AS EASY AS COMMANDER S CLICK, WIRE, GO Members of the Hima and Sella teams (from left): Jörg de la Motte, EddyTurnock, Ian Wright, Steffen Philipp, Chris Parr, Dr Michael Löbig and John Blackwell