Walla Walla, WA-

Key Technology, Inc. and Visys NV have entered into a merger agreement that will allow them to offer the single most complete source of high-performance, digital sorting technologies available for food processing along with other industrial markets, according to a press release.

“This partnership with Visys creates a value proposition that is unmatched in the industry. Through a single supplier, customers will have access to the highest performing chute-fed and belt-fed sorters available, along with our industry-leading processing systems and unparalleled support to satisfy needs in all steps of the processing line,” said Jack Ehren, President and CEO of Key Technology. “Given this unprecedented mix of product solutions and services, we’re well positioned to improve customers’ operational efficiencies and maximize their competitive advantages. Furthermore, by consolidating our intellectual property and innovations, we expect to accelerate the development of next-generation sorting technology.”

As a wholly-owned subsidiary of Key Technology, Visys will continue to operate in Hasselt, Belgium. In addition, Frank Zwerts will assume the position of President of EMEIA for Key Technology.

“With this merger, the combined entity is at the forefront of vision inspection technology, analytics, and intelligence. Key’s focus on sales, service, and customer relationships worldwide will enable us to deliver the most value to our customers going forward,” said Zwerts. “The Visys team believes in the holistic benefits of combining the two companies, and we are excited to work with Key to accelerate our potential and growth prospects.”

The merger will combine the strengths of Key and Visys to address industry needs on a multitude of levels. Visys brings field-proven chute-fed in-air sorters to the table where Key offers a family of belt-fed sorters. Visys has developed advanced laser technology and hyperspectral-based BioPrint™ sorting. Key excels with camera/laser sorting and the integration of conveying and other processing systems.

Congrats to both companies on the new merger!

Key Technology and Visys Merger