Insider Brief
- Doosan Robotics has acquired an 89.59% controlling stake in Pennsylvania-based automation firm ONExia for $25.9 million, marking a major step in its strategy to lead in AI-powered robotics.
- ONExia, known for its system integration and collaborative robotics focused on end-of-line automation, brings deep expertise, industry-specific solutions, and a 30% annual sales growth track record.
- The acquisition aligns with Doosan’s broader shift from hardware to intelligent robotics platforms, including new investments in R&D, talent, and an AI-focused Innovation Center, as it aims to become a global leader in the emerging Physical AI sector.
Doosan Robotics is extending its reach in the automation market with the acquisition of a controlling stake in Pennsylvania-based ONExia, signaling a broader push to become a global force in intelligent robotics.
The South Korean firm reports its board approved the purchase of an 89.59% stake in ONExia for $25.9 million. The deal, finalized with a stock purchase agreement and capital injection, marks a strategic shift from hardware-only offerings to data-driven, AI-powered robotic solutions.
“This acquisition marks an important milestone as we take tangible steps to strengthen our global presence, internalize AI technologies, and develop future-ready solutions,” Kevin (Minpyo) Kim, CEO of Doosan Robotics said in a statement. “ONExia’s expertise and established position in the U.S. market will create powerful synergies.”
ONExia, founded in 1984, specializes in automation system design and integration for industries such as logistics, manufacturing, and packaging. In recent years, it has expanded into collaborative robotics, focusing on end-of-line processes like palletizing and box assembly—a high-demand niche in North American supply chains. Doosan reports ONExia has posted steady growth, averaging 30% annual sales increases.
The deal is one piece of a larger realignment. Doosan is reorganizing its R&D division to emphasize AI, software development, and humanoid robotics. Doosan has stepped up hiring across robotics research, QA, and strategy teams, and expects to complete a new R&D Innovation Center by the end of the third quarter, the company indicated in announcing the acquisition.
The company also noted its goal to lead the emerging era of Physical AI—a blend of artificial intelligence and robotics designed to perform complex, physical tasks in dynamic environments.
Doosan Robotics went public in 2023 and has been pursuing international expansion to compete in a market dominated by U.S., European, and Chinese rivals. Its push into systems integration and intelligent platforms reflects a wider industry trend: robotics firms are moving beyond manufacturing arms and hardware toward full-stack automation offerings that include perception, planning, and execution.
With the ONExia deal, Doosan is positioning itself not just as a robot maker, but as a solutions provider equipped to meet the growing demand for intelligent, task-specific automation across multiple sectors.
“To position ourselves as a global leader in intelligent robotics and drive the future of Physical AI, we remain committed to investing in R&D, strategic M&A, and talent,” Kim said.
