GKN Powder Metallurgy and GKN Automotive (Dowlais Group plc), are acquired by AAM in $1.44 billion deal
The Atomic Layers: S6E31 (00178)
Atomic Layer of the Day:
American Axle & Manufacturing (AAM), the U.S.-based provider of driveline and metal forming technologies, has announced the acquisition of Dowlais Group plc, the British holding company that owns GKN Powder Metallurgy and GKN Automotive. The $1.44 billion transaction, comprising both cash and AAM stock, has been unanimously approved by the boards of directors of both companies.
Upon completion of the transaction, AAM shareholders will own 51% of the newly combined company, while Dowlais shareholders will hold 49%. The company’s headquarters will remain in Detroit, and it will be led by David C. Dauch, President and CEO of AAM.
GKN Automotive and GKN Powder Metallurgy were previously part of GKN plc, which was acquired by Melrose Industries in 2018. In 2023, Melrose announced the spin-off of both companies, forming a new independent holding company, Dowlais Group plc.
GKN Powder Metallurgy is a global leader in metal powder production and powder metallurgy components, playing a significant role in the 3D printing industry. The company employs over 5,000 people across 27 manufacturing facilities in nine countries, producing 250,000 tons of metal powders annually and manufacturing approximately 10 million parts per day.
Furthermore, through its 2019 acquisition of Forecast 3D, GKN expanded its portfolio to include polymer additive manufacturing technologies. Founded in 1994, Forecast 3D was one of the pioneers in 3D printing services, offering both prototyping and serial production using technologies such as FDM, SLA, PolyJet, and HP Multi Jet Fusion. More on this topic can be found here:
AAM’s acquisition of Dowlais aims to create a global leader in providing solutions for the automotive industry, serving both traditional and electric vehicle manufacturers. The combined company will have a diversified product portfolio encompassing driveline technologies, powder metallurgy, and additive manufacturing, positioning it to better meet market demands amid the ongoing shift toward electrification and sustainable mobility.
Expected cost synergies in the first year of operation are estimated to be approximately $300 million.
Atomic Layer from the Past:
01-31-2005: Z Corporation introduced a groundbreaking full-color 3D printer – the Spectrum Z510.
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Next week will be the premiere of the Spanish edition of The 3D Printing World Guide. WE STILL HAVE ONE OPEN SPOT! In comparison, for the Brazilian edition, which will take place in the second week of February, we have already 17 applications!