Lifting and handling
Fehr acquires Matter: synergies in automated storage systems for long products and sheet metal
The family behind the Swiss Fehr Group AG, a pioneer in automated storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS) for long and flat goods, has acquired Matter srl, an Italian specialist in vertical storage automation for the steel industry. Together, the two companies form the leading technology alliance for long and flat goods in the AS/RS sector, offering fully integrated systems across a wide range of metal and other market segments, from mills and service centers and job shops to high-throughput manufacturers.
“Together, Fehr and Matter are redefining what’s possible in automated intralogistics for long and flat goods – offering one of the most capable technology platforms in the industry.” stated Thomas Lehner, CEO at Fehr Group AG.
Building on decades of engineering excellence
Fehr and Matter deliver fully integrated storage and material handling systems for long and flat stock. Their technologies feature advanced material management interfaces, intelligent data communication, and automated transport equipment—purpose-built for complex production and retail environments. Supporting both greenfield and retrofit projects worldwide, both organizations offer complete lifecycle support—from engineering and software development to fabrication, system installation, and after-sales service.
About Matter
Established in 1992 and headquartered in Bibbiano, Italy, Matter specializes in vertical storage automation systems tailored to the steel industry. The company’s flagship solution, Matt Pro, is a tailor-made system designed for storing and handling large volumes of bars, profiles, pipes, slabs, sheets, dies, and components. For smaller-scale environments, Matt Box offers all the features, quality, and safety of a large, automated warehouse in a compact footprint—ideal for workshops, distributors, and retailers.
Matter USA, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, supports a growing customer base across the U.S., providing local access to Matter’s innovative storage technology.
About Fehr
Founded in 1949, Fehr has been realizing innovative intralogistics systems for over 75 years. From warehouse logistics to advanced automation and special handling functions, Fehr ensures the efficient and reliable movement of stainless steel, tool steel, tube and pipe, aluminum, plastic, wood, and other special materials. Their honeycomb system ranks among the fastest AS/RS solutions available for high-volume handling.
Fehr operates production facilities and service hubs across Switzerland, Germany, the USA, Poland, France, and Italy, providing customers with localized expertise and global support.
Unified strengths, greater impact
The two companies are aligning their capabilities to accelerate product innovation and elevate customer service. Joint development efforts are already underway, focusing on shared engineering resources, global project coordination, and enhanced support services.
“This alliance creates new possibilities for manufacturers and distributors looking to optimize material flow, reduce space requirements, and future-proof their operations in an increasingly data-driven world. Together, we’re helping our customers move faster and more efficiently—today and tomorrow.”, declared Giuseppe Rotondi, CEO at Matter srl
Their combined offering includes:
- comprehensive portfolio: honeycomb systems, modular bundle storage systems, sheet metal storage, automated cranes, top stackers, towers, vertical lift modules, automated picking systems, automated guided vehicles, and tailored software solutions;
- scalable integration: tailored systems for job shops, mills, service centers, and high-throughput industrial plants;
- future-ready design: networked systems optimized for digitally driven supply chains;
- global reach: expanded service and innovation hubs across Europe, North America, and beyond;
- multilingual support: customer service available in German, Italian, English, Spanish, French and Polish.
Acquisition finalized, leadership aligned
The acquisition was finalized on October 31, 2024. Matter’s leadership team, including Raffaele Fiore and Giuseppe Rotondi, continues to play a key role in driving the company’s strategic growth.
See What’s Next in AS/RS Fehr and Matter invite partners, customers, and industry professionals to explore their combined intralogistics expertise and shared vision for the future of automated material handling.
Discover how this new partnership can help your business move smarter, faster, and more efficiently.
Meet the co-exhibitors at these key industry events in 2025
- SMU Steel Summit, Atlanta (US) | August 25 - 27
- FABTECH 2025, Chicago (US) | September 8 – 11 | Booth A4904
- Stahlhandelstag, Horgen (CH) | October 30
- Stahlhandelstag, Würzburg (DE) | November 18 – 19
