INDUSTRY NEWS
Bystronic expands automation portfolio
Bystronic has entered into an agreement to acquire Isochronic AG, a Swiss automation technology company specialising in highspeed robotic sorting systems and software for sheet metal processing. Isochronic will continue to operate under its own name.
“ The acquisition strengthens our automation portfolio and supports our strategy to deliver integrated manufacturing solutions that increase customer productivity, flexibility and efficiency,” Bystronic told ISMR.
Founded in 2020 and headquartered near Lausanne, Switzerland, Isochronic develops advanced simultaneous pick-and-place robotics for automated material handling and sorting. The company’ s technology combines robotic kinematics with a proprietary software platform. Together, they are designed to enable high-speed, heavy-duty sorting for laser cutting applications.
“ Isochronic’ s technology expands our capabilities in automated sorting across a wide range of sheet formats, while adding modern software architecture and
Domenico Iacovelli, CEO, Bystronic.
robotics expertise. Our industrial expertise and global reach will support the further development and broader deployment of Isochronic’ s technology. The combination will accelerate the development of next-generation automation solutions and further enhance our offering for customers seeking highly automated production environments,” continued Bystronic.
“ We have a long-standing relationship with Isochronic, and its innovative technology perfectly complements our automation portfolio,” added Domenico Iacovelli, CEO, Bystronic.“ Its expertise in high-speed robotic sorting and software development will strengthen our ability to deliver integrated manufacturing solutions that create measurable value for our customers.”
As part of the acquisition, Bystronic acquires the rights to Isochronic’ s proprietary software and technology, enabling the further development and integration of the technology within Bystronic’ s automation portfolio.
“ We are excited about this next step with Bystronic,” explained Armin Haller, CEO, Isochronic.“ Our teams share the same passion for innovation and customer success. Together, we will be able to further develop our technology, accelerate innovation and make our automation solutions available to an even broader customer base.”
Bystronic is a leading provider of solutions for sheet metal and material processing. The company combines laser cutting technology, press brakes, automation and software with laser applications for new materials and processes. Its headquarters are in Switzerland, with development and production facilities in Germany, Spain, Italy, China and the USA. The company serves customers in over 30 countries with its own subsidiaries and a network of dealers and agents. n
www
. bystronic. com
https:// isochronic. com /
FABTECH returns to Las Vegas in October
FABTECH, North America’ s largest metal forming, fabricating, welding and finishing event, will return to Las Vegas( USA) for the first time since 2016, welcoming“ an expected 31,000 attendees.” The event will take place from 21-23 October 2026 at the Las Vegas Convention Centre, Nevada, USA. ISMR is an international media partner.
“ Manufacturers are navigating tighter margins, persistent workforce constraints and the pressure to modernise without disrupting output,” said Tracy Garcia, CEM, FABTECH group director at SME.“ For many, the question is no longer whether to invest but when and in what. FABTECH brings equipment, suppliers and technical expertise together in one place, giving attendees direct access to both solutions and the experts behind them.”
The 2026 show floor will span 725,000 square feet, equivalent to roughly 12 football fields, and the show organisers expect more than 1,400 exhibitors across 40 product categories. The recently renovated Las Vegas Convention Centre has modernised exhibit halls, improved amenities and enhanced meeting spaces.
Workforce challenges continue to reshape hiring, training and long-term planning
FABTECH in Chicago, USA.
across the industry as experienced workers retire faster than new entrants replace them. FABTECH’ s conference programme will address these issues directly, with educational sessions covering manufacturing operations, technology adoption and workforce development across all skill levels.
This year’ s special event line-up features keynote speakers and panellists sharing actionable insights on leadership, teamwork and business performance— along with networking events like‘ Women of FABTECH’. The FABTECH Conference will feature more than 180 expert-led sessions and workshops across 12 educational tracks. The programme focuses on practical strategies and emerging technologies that can help organisations improve productivity, address workforce
The Las Vegas Convention Centre.
challenges, optimise operations and drive measurable business results.
The Emerging Leaders Programme also returns for professionals of 35 years old and under, as a half-day programme focused on leadership development, peer networking, mentorship and technical training.
FABTECH’ s five event partners are the American Welding Society; the Chemical Coaters Association International, now rebranding as the Industrial Finishing and Coating Association( IFCA); the Fabricators & Manufacturers Association International( FMA); the Precision Metalforming Association( PMA) and SME. n
www. fabtechexpo. com
16 | ismr. net | ISMR September 2026