ASSA ABLOY Enhances Smart Card Offerings with Calmell Acquisition in Spain
ASSA ABLOY Expands with the Acquisition of Calmell in Spain
ASSA ABLOY, the global leader in access solutions, has recently completed its acquisition of Calmell, a prominent Spanish manufacturer known for its innovative smart cards, paper tickets, and magnetic tickets. This strategic acquisition was made public on July 10, 2025, and marks a significant step in strengthening ASSA ABLOY's position within the smart access solutions market.
Nico Delvaux, the President and CEO of ASSA ABLOY, expressed his enthusiasm about bringing Calmell into the company's fold. He stated, "I am very pleased to welcome Calmell to ASSA ABLOY, an exciting technological addition that will reinforce our current offering within smart cards and provide complementary growth opportunities."
Founded in 1920 and based in Barcelona, Calmell has developed a strong reputation for its expertise in the transportation sector, particularly in developing solutions for public transit systems. With around 100 employees, the company reported sales of approximately MEUR 29 (around MSEK 330) in 2024, showcasing a solid EBIT margin. Björn Lidefelt, EVP and Head of HID at ASSA ABLOY, noted that Calmell is a fabulous addition to their expanding public transportation ecosystem. He said, "Calmell’s offering and expertise enable people to get where they need to go, aligning well with our desire to help the world travel more freely."
This acquisition is poised to enhance ASSA ABLOY's product portfolio, particularly in smart card solutions, which have become essential in various sectors, including security, public transport, and access control. By integrating Calmell’s technologies, ASSA ABLOY is expected to achieve synergies that can lead to improved service delivery and innovation in user experience. The acquisition is also projected to be accretive to earnings per share (EPS) starting from the outset, indicating positive financial implications for ASSA ABLOY shareholders.
ASSA ABLOY operates globally, employing around 63,000 individuals and generating annual sales of SEK 150 billion. The company is renowned for its cutting-edge innovations that promote safe and convenient access to both physical and digital environments. The addition of Calmell is seen as a strategic move to bolster ASSA ABLOY's position in the competitive landscape of access solutions.
In a subsequent press release, ASSA ABLOY highlighted the significance of smart cards in enhancing the efficiency and convenience of public transportation systems. The integration of Calmell's technologies is expected to lead to new and improved products that not only serve the public transit sector but also enrich the user experience across various applications worldwide.
As the demand for smart technologies continues to rise globally, ASSA ABLOY is well-positioned to leverage this acquisition to enhance its portfolio and meet the evolving needs of customers in the smart card and access solutions markets.
This move reiterates ASSA ABLOY's commitment to innovation, safety, and accessibility, crucial factors in today's interconnected world. With Calmell's experience and technological strengths, ASSA ABLOY is excited to explore new growth avenues and innovations that lie ahead, making it a significant player in the smart transportation landscape.