No financial terms or timeline for the closing of the deal were disclosed.

The transaction, according to Flowrox, will strengthen its automation expertise and support its growth, as the newly purchased company - also Finnish - specialises in automation system design, delivery and maintenance.

Flowrox CEO and president Jukka Koskela pointed out Polar-Automaatio had been a turnkey supplier of modernisation projects for automated production lines, and these projects could provide opportunities for Flowrox's other lines to be included in the package.

"Flowrox has invested heavily in the development of IIoT-based smart automation systems in recent years," Koskela said. "There are many older automation systems out there that require renewal in the near future.

"Experts such as Polar-Automaatio that are independent of system suppliers have a special status in such projects. This acquisition will enable Flowrox to provide their customers with more comprehensive solutions."

Polar-Automaatio CEO Markus Saloniemi added that the deal would strengthen the company's role as a process and automation technology specialist. It will also grow its servicing capabilities.

"Flowrox is the perfect partner … on account of its focus on growth, existing global sales and service network, and advanced IIoT solutions," he said.

Polar-Automaatio is based in Keminmaa, northwest Finland. Flowrox, which is family-owned, is based in Lappeenranta, southeast Finland. Post-acquisition, the company will have 215 employees.