Xavo Acquires Laboperator: Building a Unified Platform for Next-Gen Labs

NEW YORK, NY – October 28, 2025

Xavo, a leading provider of Sample Management and Laboratory Execution Systems (LES), today announced the acquisition of Laboperator, a specialist in laboratory automation solutions, from Labforward GmbH. The move signals a growing trend toward integrated digital platforms in the life sciences, promising to streamline workflows and improve data integration across the entire R&D and production lifecycle.

Connecting the Lab: A Vision of Integrated Workflows

The acquisition aims to address a longstanding challenge within the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries: the disconnect between research and manufacturing. Traditionally, data generated during early-stage research often resides in silos, hindering efficient transfer to production teams and slowing down the time to market for new therapies. Xavo and Laboperator are positioning this combined offering as a solution to bridge that gap. “The core idea is to eliminate those data handoffs and create a seamless flow of information from initial discovery all the way through to manufacturing,” explained a source close to the deal. “That requires a unified platform, and that's exactly what they're building.”

Laboperator’s strength lies in its vendor-agnostic approach to laboratory automation, connecting diverse instruments and streamlining workflows regardless of manufacturer or age. Combining this capability with Xavo’s expertise in sample management and LES creates a powerful synergy. Xavo’s platform already boasts features like AI-assisted scheduling, robust data integrity, and seamless integration with existing systems like LIMS and ELNs. The combined platform will leverage these strengths to provide a more holistic and efficient laboratory environment.

Consolidation and Competition in a Growing Market

The acquisition occurs within a rapidly expanding and increasingly competitive landscape. The global laboratory automation and informatics market is experiencing substantial growth, driven by demands for efficiency, precision, and regulatory compliance. Market research suggests significant expansion, with projections ranging from $5.33 billion to $14.78 billion by 2034. Consolidation is a key trend, as companies seek to offer more comprehensive and integrated solutions.

“We’re seeing a lot of activity in this space, with larger players acquiring smaller, specialized companies,” commented a market analyst. “The goal is to create a one-stop shop for laboratory informatics, offering everything from sample management to data analysis and automation.” Other major players in the market, including Thermo Fisher Scientific, LabVantage, and Benchling, are also actively investing in integrated platforms and advanced technologies like AI and machine learning.

While the acquisition enhances Xavo’s capabilities, competitors are likely to respond with their own innovations and strategic partnerships. One source suggested that some companies might focus on specific niches or emphasize their modularity and best-of-breed approach. “The market is still evolving, and there’s room for multiple players,” they said. “The key will be to offer a solution that meets the specific needs of each customer.”

Labforward’s Rationale and the Future of Automation

While specific details regarding Labforward GmbH’s decision to sell Laboperator remain confidential, industry observers suggest several possible factors. The company may have determined that Laboperator’s growth potential could be better realized under the ownership of a larger, more focused entity like Xavo. Alternatively, the sale could be part of a broader strategic realignment, allowing Labforward to concentrate on other areas of its business. “It’s not uncommon to see companies divest assets that no longer align with their core strategic vision,” explained one source. “The goal is to streamline operations and focus resources on areas with the highest potential for growth.”

The acquisition also highlights the growing importance of automation in modern laboratories. As pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies face increasing pressure to reduce costs and accelerate time to market, they are turning to automation to improve efficiency and reduce errors. Laboperator’s vendor-agnostic approach is particularly valuable in this context, allowing companies to integrate automation solutions from different manufacturers without disrupting existing workflows. “The future of the laboratory is undoubtedly automated,” commented a laboratory director. “The challenge is to find solutions that are flexible, scalable, and easy to integrate with existing systems.”

Looking ahead, the combined entity is expected to focus on expanding its customer base and developing new features and capabilities. One priority is to leverage AI and machine learning to optimize laboratory workflows and improve data analysis. Another is to enhance the platform’s compliance features, ensuring that it meets the stringent regulatory requirements of the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. “This is about more than just connecting systems,” stated a company insider. “It’s about creating a truly intelligent laboratory that can adapt to changing needs and drive innovation.”