Strategic Acquisition Expands Innovation in Automation and Smart Grids
The Pietro Fiorentini Group has signed an agreement to acquire a 60% stake in FAST Spa, a leading company specializing in automation and process control systems for industrial and utility sectors. This strategic acquisition strengthens Pietro Fiorentini’s position in smart metering, smart grids, and digitalization, enabling the company to expand its technology-driven solutions for the energy and water industries.
Enhancing Process Automation and Control Technologies
FAST Spa, headquartered in Scandiano, Reggio Emilia, has been a pioneer in process control technologies since 1982. The company develops integrated hardware and software solutions designed to enhance operational efficiency, reduce human error, and improve real-time monitoring for multi-utility companies and industrial players worldwide.
With this acquisition, Pietro Fiorentini will leverage FAST’s expertise in:
- Smart metering and digitalization of gas and water networks
- Advanced process automation for industrial applications
- Remote monitoring and control systems for gas stations
- Innovative software solutions for multi-utility network management
Key Synergies Driving Digital Transformation
Executive Insights on the Acquisition
According to Emilio Benati, CEO of FAST Spa:
“Becoming part of the Pietro Fiorentini Group significantly enhances our business opportunities in both Italian and international markets. The synergies from this collaboration will allow us to develop and deliver cutting-edge digital solutions that set new benchmarks in the industry. This partnership will fuel the growth of both FAST and Pietro Fiorentini, reinforcing our shared commitment to innovation.”
Cristiano Nardi, Executive Chairman of Pietro Fiorentini Group, emphasized the acquisition’s strategic value:
“FAST Spa is the ideal partner to help us tackle the challenges of digitalizing distribution and transmission gas networks. Their expertise will boost our R&D capabilities, particularly in electronic metering, regulation, and monitoring solutions. Moreover, this partnership accelerates our entry into the water sector, allowing us to capitalize on the immense potential in smart metering and digital infrastructure.”
Impact on Pietro Fiorentini’s Engineered Solutions Division
FAST Spa’s process control division will enhance Pietro Fiorentini’s Engineered Solutions Division, strengthening its ability to develop automation and control systems for complex industrial processes. This synergy will drive greater efficiency and competitiveness in:
- Energy sector digitalization
- Water treatment and management
- Oil & gas process automation
- Pharmaceutical, chemical, and food industry solutions
Strengthening Market Leadership in Smart Grids and Smart Metering
This acquisition marks a major step in consolidating Pietro Fiorentini’s leadership in the smart metering and smart grid markets, unlocking new growth opportunities in industrial automation, utility management, and digital energy solutions.
About FAST Spa
Founded in 1982 as a spin-off from the University of Bologna, FAST Spa has become a leading provider of process control and automation technologies. The company operates from three locations:
- Scandiano (Reggio Emilia, Italy) – Headquarters
- La Spezia (Italy) – R&D and production facility
- Piatra Neamț (Romania) – International operations center
FAST Spa employs over 85 professionals and reported a €13 million turnover in 2020, with 12% reinvested in R&D. The company specializes in:
Hardware for multi-utility network management
Smart gas and water metering solutions
Process control for industrial applications
Remote monitoring and automation software
