Subject category:
Strategy and General Management
Published by:
International Institute for Management Development (IMD)
Version: 14.06.2024
Revision date: 25-Jun-2024
Length: 8 pages
Data source: Field research
Abstract
The case outlines the development of Boston-based start-up Rethink Robotics Inc, a leader in a rapidly growing part of the booming robotics market: collaborative robots (cobots), which work side by side with humans. This case also traces the moves of a mid-sized German hardware engineering company, HAHN Automation, a leader in integrated automation systems. With a keen interest in cobots, HAHN Automation had invested in the start-up and acquired the rights to distribute, sell and service Rethink Robotics' products globally. This had made HAHN Automation a leader in the growing global market for cobots. When Rethink Robotics suddenly announced that it was liquidating, HAHN's leaders needed to act. They saw three options: acquire, develop IP in-house or find another solution.
Geographical setting
Region:
World/global
Featured company
Rethink Robotics
Employees:
11-50
Turnover:
USD 15 million
Industry:
Manufacturing: Industrial automation
About
Abstract
The case outlines the development of Boston-based start-up Rethink Robotics Inc, a leader in a rapidly growing part of the booming robotics market: collaborative robots (cobots), which work side by side with humans. This case also traces the moves of a mid-sized German hardware engineering company, HAHN Automation, a leader in integrated automation systems. With a keen interest in cobots, HAHN Automation had invested in the start-up and acquired the rights to distribute, sell and service Rethink Robotics' products globally. This had made HAHN Automation a leader in the growing global market for cobots. When Rethink Robotics suddenly announced that it was liquidating, HAHN's leaders needed to act. They saw three options: acquire, develop IP in-house or find another solution.
Settings
Geographical setting
Region:
World/global
Featured company
Rethink Robotics
Employees:
11-50
Turnover:
USD 15 million
Industry:
Manufacturing: Industrial automation