Metso Advances End-to-End Smart Port and Stockyard Solutions by Bringing MRA Automation into Its Global Operations

Metso Advances End-to-End Smart Port and Stockyard Solutions by Bringing MRA Automation into Its Global Operations

(IN BRIEF) Metso has acquired Australian engineering firm MRA Automation to strengthen its automation and digital capabilities in bulk material handling and port operations, integrating MRA’s advanced software and engineering expertise with Metso’s global portfolio of bulk handling equipment and lifecycle services, enabling more efficient, safer, and data-driven end-to-end solutions for customers while expanding Metso’s footprint in Australia and accelerating its global digitalisation strategy in ports and terminals.

(PRESS RELEASE) ESPOO, 2-Feb-2026 — /EuropaWire/ — Metso has moved to broaden its industrial automation footprint by purchasing MRA Automation (Multiskilled Resources Australia Pty Ltd), an independent engineering and technology company headquartered in Newcastle, New South Wales. MRA Automation has built a strong reputation for developing and delivering specialized automation, engineering, and software systems for organizations involved in bulk material handling, particularly within port and terminal environments. Over time, the company has become known internationally for its role in advancing digital and automated operations in the bulk logistics sector.

The two companies have chosen not to make the financial details of the transaction public. Metso has confirmed that the acquisition does not represent a material change to its financial position.

Jonathan Allen, Senior Vice President of Grinding, Bulk, Pyro and Smelting Services at Metso, welcomed the addition of MRA Automation to the organization, noting that the company’s technical strengths closely align with Metso’s strategic direction in bulk and port solutions. He explained that MRA’s deep knowledge of stockyard automation complements Metso’s existing electrical and control system capabilities, which were further strengthened through previous acquisitions in 2023. Allen also highlighted that integrating MRA’s software platform and service offerings will allow Metso to provide a broader range of digital and automation solutions to bulk and port customers, reinforce its standing in the Australian market, and support its continued expansion on a global scale.

Through this acquisition, Metso intends to bring together its own material handling technologies with MRA’s automation and software expertise, creating a more integrated suite of solutions for customers. These combined capabilities are aimed at improving operational performance, enhancing safety standards, and delivering stronger technical support throughout the entire lifecycle of bulk material handling activities.

Rodney Devetak, Managing Director of MRA Automation, stated that becoming part of Metso represents a significant milestone for the company, offering greater opportunities for both its customers and employees. He emphasized that the move will enable MRA’s team to operate within a larger, globally established organization while continuing to develop innovative solutions. Peter McPherson, Director of Engineering at MRA Automation, added that the acquisition will support the international rollout of MRA’s Smart Automation Products, which he believes will play a key role in modernizing bulk material handling operations worldwide.

MRA Automation employs approximately 60 professionals and is widely regarded as a leading provider of advanced industrial automation solutions for bulk and port applications. The company’s portfolio includes proprietary smart automation services as well as its Axo33 Smart Software products, which are designed to improve monitoring, control, and operational efficiency in complex material handling environments.

Metso, with more than a century of experience and over 8,000 bulk material handling installations around the world, continues to position itself as a major player in the sector. Its product and solutions range covers railcar dumpers, apron feeders, belt feeders, conveyors, stackers, reclaimers, ship loaders and unloaders, and cable belt conveyor systems. The company is recognized for its ability to design, deliver, and support complete material handling solutions across their full operational lifecycle, adapting to the changing needs of its customers over time.

About MRA Automation

MRA Automation, with a team of about 60 experts, is an Australian based, world leader in advanced industrial automation solutions for the bulk and port operations. Its offerings combine proprietary smart automation services with Axo33 Smart Software products. More information is available on the company’s website: MRA Engineering Services | Automation Engineering- Opens in a new window

Continuous development and full lifecycle support in bulk material handling   

Backed by over a century of expertise and more than 8,000 bulk material handling installations, globally, Metso stands at the forefront of the bulk material handling industry.

Metso’s bulk material handling offering includes railcar dumpers, apron feeders, belt feeders, conveyors, stackers, reclaimers, ship loaders and unloaders, cable belt conveyors and more. Renowned by customers for its expertise in designing, supplying, and comprehensive products and services across the full lifecycle, Metso provides best-in-class solutions, purpose-built to address customers’ evolving operational needs.

Visit our website to read more about  material handling- Opens in a new window solutions.

Metso is a frontrunner in sustainable technologies, end-to-end solutions and services for the aggregates, minerals processing and metals refining industries globally. We improve our customers’ energy and water efficiency, increase their productivity, and reduce environmental risks with our product and service expertise. We are the partner for positive change.

Metso is headquartered in Espoo, Finland. At the end of 2024 Metso had close to 17,000 employees in around 50 countries, and sales in 2024 were about EUR 4.9 billion. Metso is listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki.

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Media Contacts:

Jonathan Allen, Senior Vice President, Grinding, Bulk, Pyro and Smelting Services, Metso, tel.  +1 717 843 8671, email: jonathan.allen(at)metso.com

Metso Media Desk, tel. +358 20 482 1930, email: media(at)metso.com

SOURCE: Metso