October 16, 2025 by Sam Francis

Following the announcement of the divestment of its robotics division to SoftBank Group, ABB is transitioning the Machine Automation division – formerly part of the Robotics & Discrete Automation business area – into the Process Automation business area.

The transition will take effect in the fourth quarter of 2025.

As the division transitions into the Process Automation business area, customers in process and hybrid industries will benefit from deeper technology synergies – spanning automation, electrification and digitalization – delivered through a unified and comprehensive portfolio.

In a leadership update, ABB announced that Florian Schneeberger, who served as chief technology officer at Machine Automation since 2022, has been appointed division president. He succeeds Joerg Theis, who has decided to leave the company to pursue opportunities outside ABB.

Florian Schneeberger, division president, ABB's Machine Automation division, says:“Machine Automation brings deep expertise in machine and factory automation – capabilities that complement ABB's strengths in process and hybrid industries.

“With pioneering technology innovated and produced here in Eggelsberg, we are committed to deliver a truly differentiated offering for customers across industrial sectors globally, helping them operate leaner and cleaner.”

This integration builds on Machine Automation's legacy within ABB, including the 2017 acquisition of B&R – now the core of the division.

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