Growth Strategy
When identifying technology gaps in the product portfolio, Hexagon compares the cost and benefits of developing the technology in-house with acquiring a company that can provide Hexagon with the technology needed. Aspects such as purchase price, resources and time to market are factored into that evaluation process.

Innovation
Innovation is fundamental in Hexagon’s long-term strategy for growth and profitability. Through successful R&D and sound knowledge of customer needs, growth is created by unique product offerings that save resources and increase competitiveness for customers. Hexagon invests more than 10 per cent of net sales in R&D and typically renews its product portfolio every 18 months.

Acquisitions
Company acquisitions are an important part of Hexagon’s long-term growth strategy. Acquired businesses add new technologies and know-how to the Group product portfolio, strengthening the customer offering and creating potential for a stronger presence in markets with high growth and favorable profitability.

Hexagon continuously monitors a large number of acquisition candidates. They are regularly evaluated financially, technologically and commercially. Every acquisition candidate’s potential in Hexagon is determined on the basis of synergy simulations and implementation strategies.

Hexagon applies an aggressive acquisition strategy. Since 2000, the Group has implemented some 70 acquisitions and performed about 50 divestments of non-core activities. During 2010 Hexagon acquired the US-based software company Intergraph Corporation. The acquisition enables Hexagon to seamlessly connect the real world with maps or drawings. With Intergraph, Hexagon covers all aspects of the design-, measurement and visualisation technology market from capturing three-dimensional data from ground, air and space, processing data to creating, managing and delivering information via GIS and CAD solutions. Intergraph is headquartered in Huntsville, Alabama, USA, and employs approximay 4 000 people in 34 countries.

Brand Strategy
Hexagon continuously works to strengthen its brand and brand architecture system globally. Hexagon’s brand strategy supports its growth strategy, helping to create long-term sustainability and profitability for the Group.