Eckhart Inc. has acquired Gasper Engineering, a full-service industrial automation systems integrator and specialty machine builder located in North Vernon, Indiana.

Eckhart designs, builds and integrates turnkey systems for some of the largest industrial companies in the world. Eckhart’s suite of solutions includes AUTOCRAFT autonomous guided vehicles, collaborative robotics, 3-D printing, automated conveyance and assembly systems, mechanical and electrical design services and specialized ergonomic assembly line tools and equipment.

Gasper Engineering, established in 1999, is a factory automation systems integrator that serves diverse end-markets throughout North America. The company designs, builds and integrates highly automated assembly, conveyance, labeling and sortation systems for industries that include aerospace, automotive, life science, packaging and power generation and distribution. Gasper Engineering is highly regarded for consistently demonstrating best-in-class customer service. Gasper Engineering’s attention to detail has helped the company achieve a loyal base of customers who trust Gasper to design and integrate highly engineered systems into their factory environments.

Located in the center of Indiana’s Golden Triangle, Gasper Engineering is a one-hour drive from three major U.S. cities: Indianapolis, Indiana; Cincinnati, Ohio; and Louisville, Kentucky. These metropolitan regions provide direct access to some of the largest shipping, logistics, grocery, appliance, and consumer packaged goods companies in the world, the company says.

Stephen Gasper, founder of Gasper Engineering, said, “Since our founding, Gasper Engineering has exemplified a servant mindset with customers. Exceeding customer expectations is in our DNA. We are proud of the strong reputation we’ve earned integrating highly engineered automation into the most technologically advanced industrial environments in the world.” Gasper continued, “I sold my company to Eckhart because they are committed to investing in our community. As an Industry 4.0 leader, their advanced technologies complement our core business and their turnkey suite of solutions bring real value to our customers. Eckhart’s commitment to grow in North Vernon and expand employment in Indiana is exciting.”

Eckhart President and CEO Andy Storm commented, “As global markets continue to experience volatility and change, establishing a local presence close to customers will remain a high priority for Eckhart. Gasper Engineering will help us accelerate the adoption of Industry 4.0 in a key region of the United States where long-term growth opportunities in non-cyclical industries are significant. We look forward to expanding our footprint in North Vernon and growing manufacturing employment in the state of Indiana.”