Jenoptik acquires Five Lakes Automation

Optoelectronics group Jenoptik has acquired 100 percent of the Michigan company Five Lakes Automation.

FLA is a full-service provider of complex automated manufacturing solutions.

The company plans and designs automated production lines and integrates them in the customer’s environment including all production systems. 

The services and products around process engineering and implementation of automated manufacturing solutions include for example design, system layout, simulation, controls hardware and software design, robotic handling systems as well as transfer devices.

FLA has specific expertise in the joining of complex metal components, especially welding systems. Headquarters is Novi, Michigan and therefore close to Jenoptik’s new technology campus in Rochester Hills.

While Jenoptik is specialized in efficient, precise and safe 3D laser processing, FLA contributes comprehensive experience in the handling of devices and the integration of individual production systems into automated process lines.

Stefan Traeger, Jenoptik president and CEO, says: “The acquisition allows us to win new know-how around automated production and new customers because not only can we offer stand-alone machines now but complete process solutions from a single source.”

FLA benefits from the worldwide presence and the financial strength of the Jenoptik Group.

Keith LaPointe, president and founder of FLA, says: “We are glad to have found a strong partner in Jenoptik that does not only complement our process know-how and specialization productwise but which will also allow us to open up new markets and industries.”

LaPointe says the companies will merge the competencies of Jenoptik’s laser machine business with the process know-how of his company, and he will be responsible for the laser processing business unit of Jenoptik in North America in future.

In May 2017 Jenoptik inaugurated its new technology campus in Rochester Hills.

Around 110 Jenoptik employees develop, manufacture and assemble modern metrology and laser machines for the American automotive industry.

The new facility with around 9,300 square meters offers free production space to be used for future process automation projects.