Business
HIMA Group Reports Record Sales Growth in 2023
The HIMA Group, a family-owned leader in safety-related automation solutions, has announced a landmark year, recording its highest-ever financial performance in 2023. The company's global footprint and its offerings for the process industry and railway technology are set for further expansion.
In 2023, HIMA achieved sales of 151.4 million euros, marking an organic growth of 12%. The acquisition of Sella Controls in February 2023 contributed to an overall sales increase of 20%. "Our growth strategy, centered on digitalizing functional safety and international expansion, yielded significant returns in 2023," stated Jörg de la Motte, CEO of the HIMA Group.
"HIMA's profitable growth in 2023 provides a robust foundation for future investments," added Dr. Michael Löbig, CFO of the HIMA Group. Regionally, Europe remains the dominant market with a 55% share of sales, followed by Asia (20%), the Middle East (17%), and the Americas (8%).
Strengthening Global Presence and Expansion
HIMA continues its international expansion strategy. Following the acquisition of UK-based Sella Controls, HIMA also acquired Norwegian technology company Origo Solutions in February 2024. "Both acquisitions are pivotal in elevating HIMA’s global solution portfolio," noted Jörg de la Motte. Dr. Michael Löbig added, "We are making excellent progress with integration."
HIMA secured a significant order from Norwegian energy giant Equinor for equipment supply to onshore and offshore plants. Origo Solutions' development of the SCADA+ system extends HIMA's reach into renewable energy sectors.
The company's local presence grew with new locations in Saudi Arabia and the expansion of operations in Slovakia and the Middle East. A subsidiary in India is set to open by the end of the year. Where HIMA lacks a direct presence, it strengthens its partner program to extend engineering and support capabilities globally.
Advanced Solutions and Successful Projects
HIMA achieved milestones across various sectors, including new rail projects in the UK, Italy, and India. The railway industry, alongside the process industry, remains a core market for HIMA. Thanks to Sella Controls, HIMA has enhanced its product and solution portfolio, including the development of an overspeed prevention solution for UK rail projects and securing the earthing system in Italy's high-speed train tunnel, Galleria Ceraino. Additionally, a partnership with an Indian firm has been established to develop the Automatic Train Protection System, "Kavach."
In the process industry, HIMA drives the digitalization of functional safety. "Our digital safety lifecycle solutions assist operators in maintaining safe and compliant operations," explained Jörg de la Motte. At ACHEMA 2024, HIMA will showcase innovations such as the Smart Safety Test and the Safety Navigator training platform. The FLOWorX pipeline management solution has been enhanced to monitor and secure hydrogen pipelines, addressing the unique risks they pose.
In collaboration with cybersecurity expert genua, HIMA provides protection against cyber threats and ensures compliance with the KAS 51 guideline. Plans for 2024 include further regional expansions and new product innovations, such as a safe HMI with fail-safe display and button functions. "The outlook for 2024 is promising," concluded Dr. Michael Löbig.