Optel Group Acquires Vanguard Robotics to Enhance Pharmaceutical Automation Landscape

Optel Group, a software provider headquartered in Quebec City, Canada, has acquired Vanguard Robotics Inc., a company engaged in end-of-line collaborative robot (cobot) automation solutions.

In a press release on August 28, Optel Group stated that the global collaborative robot market is expected to exceed $10 billion by 2030, with an annual growth rate of 30% to 40%.

Optel states that by integrating Vanguard's robotics technology, it can now help pharmaceutical manufacturers address labor constraints while increasing profitability and operational efficiency.

From left: Louis Roy, Founder and CEO of Optel Group; Olivier Laboissionnière and Nicolas Francoeur, Co-owners of Vanguard Robotics. Photo credit: CNW Group/Optel Group

Louis Roy, Founder and CEO of Optel Group, stated: "This acquisition is a natural extension of the long-term collaboration between both parties. By combining Vanguard's expertise with our mature track-and-trace and vision systems, we can create greater value for our customers—including improving production line efficiency, alleviating labor shortages, and enhancing profitability. This is highly aligned with our mission: to empower pharmaceutical companies through innovative, integrated solutions, rather than merely meeting compliance requirements."

Olivier Laboissionnière, co-owner of Vanguard Robotics, stated: "Partnering with Optel Group allows us to extend our impact globally. In the future, both parties will redefine the automation field in the pharmaceutical industry through faster deployment, smarter integration, and relentless focus on quality and compliance."

Optel Group stated in the press release that this acquisition expands the company's automation capabilities from traditional vision systems and track-and-trace systems to a broader scope, helping it become a turnkey manufacturing partner in the pharmaceutical industry.

Vanguard Robotics was founded in 2018 and is headquartered in Saint-Augustin-de-Desmaures, Quebec, Canada.