Caracol, a global leader in large-format additive manufacturing (LFAM), has announced the acquisition of the intellectual property and robotic machine configuration assets of the additive division of
Hans Weber Maschinenfabrik GmbH.
The acquisition represents a strategic step for Caracol, aimed at integrating Weber’s additive technologies into its already strong portfolio and positioning the company to offer what it describes as ‘the most comprehensive LFAM ecosystem available, tailored to meet the evolving needs of international customers’. It also underscores the company’s commitment to accelerating the industrialisation of LFAM technologies across a broad spectrum of manufacturing sectors, with a particular focus on strengthening its presence in the DACH region.
Customers previously working with Weber’s additive solutions will now benefit from Caracol’s global service infrastructure, which spans more than 55 countries. The company promises continuity and enhancement, with all products supported by Caracol’s renowned application expertise and after-sales service. Weber, meanwhile, will remain a key partner in the development of extrusion technologies, contributing to the evolution of Caracol’s extended product range.
Francesco De Stefano, CEO and Co-founder of Caracol, said: “This agreement combines heritage with innovation, by two companies united by shared values — progressiveness, engineering excellence, and a customer-centric mindset. It allows us to strengthen the technological roadmap of two best-in-class technologies, ensuring each can best fit specific customer’s industrial needs. On the one hand, Caracol’s expertise of the full turnkey technological ecosystem, process, and deep vertical application know-how. On the other, Weber’s core expertise on extrusion and machinery manufacturing.”
Broader level of customisation and configurationsHe added: “Thanks to the partnership with Weber, Caracol clients will be able to access Heron platforms with a broader level of customisation and configurations to satisfy their specific industrial needs. This means also additional options when it comes to automation – such as Siemens control or ABB robots.”
From Weber’s perspective, the decision to partner with Caracol followed careful consideration. Dr Markus Weber and Ludwig Weber, managing directors of Hans Weber, said: “We chose to sign this deal with Caracol following the evaluation of several proposals from players in the sector. Our choice was based on the fact that they are a leader in the large format AM market, which has built a global network of support, have know-how on key applications and industry verticals, and have a value proposition that is complementary with ours. This is why we believe they are the best company to continue guiding our customers in the implementation of LFAM tech and continue the legacy we started.”
The acquisition forms part of Caracol’s broader investment strategy in Europe, leveraging Weber’s established footprint in the DACH region to ensure that the continent’s leading industrial players have access to cutting-edge technologies and services. At a time when resilient, localised production is more critical than ever, Caracol’s move reinforces its dedication to strengthening Europe’s industrial value chains.
At its core, this partnership reflects a shared vision for the future of industrial production. Caracol is committed to preserving and building upon Weber’s legacy in the additive sector, while continuing to push the boundaries of robotic advanced manufacturing with a focus on quality, reliability, and innovation.