Information on the target
HOERBIGER Holding AG has appointed Dr. Michael Albiez as a new member of its executive management team. He will lead the newly established Positioning Division and will assume management of Physik Instrumente (PI) following the closing of the acquisition. Dr. Albiez holds a degree in Mathematics and Physics from the University of Konstanz and earned his doctorate in Physics from the University of Heidelberg. His professional career began in 2005 as a research associate in the Semiconductor Manufacturing Technology division at ZEISS, a globally recognized leader in optical and optoelectronic technology.
Between 2010 and 2016, Dr. Albiez held several leadership roles at ZEISS, including overseeing the development of scanning electron microscopes and leading research in the Materials division. He also completed an Executive MBA at Mannheim Business School. In 2018, he was appointed Chief Operations Officer and a member of the management board at Carl Zeiss Microscopy GmbH, and from 2019 until the end of 2025, he served as CEO of Carl Zeiss Research Microscopy Solutions. HOERBIGER announced the acquisition of PI, a leading global provider of high-precision motion and positioning technologies, in December 2025, with the acquisition closing on March 31, 2026.
Industry overview in the target’s specific country
The positioning technology industry is experiencing significant growth, driven by advancements in automation and precision engineering. In Germany, where HOERBIGER is headquartered, the demand for high-precision motion control solutions is increasing across various sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, and robotics. The integration of smart technologies and the rise of Industry 4.0 are further propelling the need for innovative positioning systems that enhance operational efficiency and accuracy.
Germany's robust engineering sector, combined with its commitment to research and development, positions the country as a leader in the global positioning technology market. Companies are increasingly investing in R&D to develop cutting-edge solutions that meet the evolving needs of their customers. This trend is expected to continue, with significant opportunities for growth in both domestic and international markets.
Moreover, the increasing emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency is driving innovation in the positioning technology space. Companies are focusing on developing solutions that not only improve performance but also reduce environmental impact. As a result, the industry is witnessing a shift towards more sustainable practices, which is likely to create new avenues for growth and collaboration among key players.
The rationale behind the deal The acquisition of Physik Instrumente (PI) aligns with HOERBIGER's strategic vision to expand its portfolio and strengthen its position in the high-precision motion and positioning technology market. By integrating PI's expertise and innovati…