Nikon Metrology announced today that ASF Metrology intends to acquire Nikon Metrology's coordinate measuring machines (CMM) business. The closing of the transaction is expected to take place in about two months.

Nikon Metrology's CMM activities, with offices in Belgium, France, Germany, the UK and the U.S., represent approximately 25% of the total Nikon Metrology worldwide consolidated turnover. Coordinate measuring machines (CMM) are used in sectors where accurate dimensions and quality control are crucial, such as aerospace, automotive and medical implants.

Upon closing the transaction, all CMM production, development, sales and service activities, including the CAMIO software, will be transferred to ASF Metrology, under the ownership and management of Angelo Muscarella, who has a long and proven track record in metrology and especially the CMM business. Nikon Metrology will continue to serve a number of selected accounts as part of a strategic marketing partnership where both companies will promote each other's products and services. All employees mainly dedicated to the CMM business, a crucial asset to the knowhow of the company, are intended to transfer to ASF Metrology.

Hajime Kosawa, CEO of Nikon Metrology, welcomed the plans: "This business transfer is in line with the 2017 Nikon Corporation strategic review for industrial metrology to focus on non-contact inspection, based on optical and X-ray technology and will allow both companies to focus on a more efficient growth strategy for each of their businesses."

Angelo Muscarella, CEO and owner of ASF Metrology, commented: "Thanks to our long-term experience in the CMM market and the close cooperation with Nikon Metrology, I believe that ASF Metrology's competitive position in the industry and its focus on CMM will enable us to expand the existing solid customer base. We will focus on growth in all regions by expanding our market coverage worldwide, leveraging on the former LK brand name of the CMM business and its track record."

Both companies will work closely together to ensure a smooth transition with suppliers, customers and resellers.

Further details of the agreement were not disclosed.