STOCKHOLM – Ericsson is bolstering its investments in 5G antenna technology after buying Kathrein’s antenna and filters business. Financial terms were not disclosed.
Founded in 1919 and headquartered in Germany, Kathrein is an existing Ericsson supplier. Preliminary and unaudited revenues from the acquired part of Kathrein were approximately EUR 270 million in 2018, excluding sales to Ericsson.
According to Monday’s news release, the acquisition is an asset deal that will see Ericsson acquire certain assets and liabilities, including Kathrein’s antenna and filter business for mobile networks, plus add approximately 4,000 employees in R&D, production, and sales based in locations including the U.S., Mexico, Germany, Romania and China.
“Strengthening our in-house antenna competence is another important step in our Networks portfolio strategy”, said Ericsson’s EVP and head of business area networks Fredrik Jejdling, in the release. “The acquisition of Kathrein’s antenna and filters business will expand our capabilities and competences in the advanced active and passive antenna domain further. With the additional focus on the antenna and filter business led by Kathrein professionals, we will broaden our offering to further optimize site space, which is vital for the introduction of 5G.”
The acquisition is expected to close in Q3 2019 pending approval from relevant regulatory authorities.
