Aviation tech company SITA has acquired passenger handling solutions company Materna IPS as it expands its influence in the sector as part of a “fast-growth strategy” 

SITA’s acquisition, which is subject to regulatory approval, is the biggest ever for the company and will specifically strengthen its offering of self bag-drop technology. 

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CEO David Lavorel said the combination of SITA’s services with Materna’s existing technology will allow the company to offer “a dimension of efficiency never seen before.” 

He said: “We’re on a powerful transformation path. This acquisition fits perfectly with our growth strategy. We wanted to take a bold step towards transforming the future of travel, and we’ve done it.” 

Materna’s customer base spans three continents with its technology in use across North America, Europe, and Asia, including the common bag drop system at Princess Juliana International Airport on the Caribbean island of Saint Martin. 

SITA said its acquisition of the company will allow it to become the industry leader in end-to-end solutions for airports, adding to its portfolio of biometrics, digital travel and airport operations technology. 

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Georg Oschmann, CEO of Materna IPS, said: “This strategic move is an ideal fit with our commitment to innovation and excellence. 

“Together, we’ll create unparalleled value in our industry and beyond, using our combined strengths to drive meaningful progress and more opportunity for everyone.”

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