Lithuanian Altechna Acquires Colorado’s Alpine Research Optics, Expanding Its Laser Optics Capabilities

Acquisition of Alpine Research Optics

Altechna, a leading provider of laser optics and optomechanical assemblies headquartered in Vilnius, Lithuania, has acquired Alpine Research Optics (ARO), based in Boulder, Colorado – a recognised hub for photonics research and technology. Both companies plan to triple their income over the next five years while maintaining ARO’s existing management structure.

The acquisition strengthens the companies’ position in the global laser technology market, with a particular focus on medical applications and semiconductor manufacturing.

Expanding Global Presence and Revenue Outlook

With the acquisition, Altechna is expanding its global presence by integrating Boulder-based ARO, a high-quality laser optics producer specialising in UV optics. Maintaining the original management structure of ARO, both companies aim to increase their combined income threefold over the next five years.

In 2023, the combined revenues of Altechna and ARO are expected to exceed €22 million.

By acquiring a company with 35 highly skilled professionals, Altechna is further enhancing its capacity to deliver advanced laser technology solutions. As the laser optics offering expands, Altechna also expects to create new job opportunities for technologists and engineers in the long term.

Credit: ARO

Lithuania’s Role in the Global Laser Industry

“Lithuania is one of the world’s leading countries in laser technology with a fully self-sustainable ecosystem that provides lasers to CERN, NASA, and more than 90 of the world’s top 100 universities,” says Antanas Laurutis, CEO of Altechna. “For Altechna, global expansion is a natural next step. We expect significantly faster growth in laser solutions for semiconductors and medicine.”

Alpine Research Optics’ Expertise in UV Laser Optics

Founded in 1991, Alpine Research Optics has specialised in high-quality UV laser optics for more than three decades. The company has built a strong reputation for technical quality and precision manufacturing, becoming one of the leading optical manufacturing companies in the United States.

Operating from a modern 35,000-square-foot facility, ARO focuses on laser optic fabrication and advanced coatings. Its product portfolio includes mirrors, polarizers, beam splitters, windows, and filters serving semiconductor manufacturing, micromachining, medical instruments, defence, aerospace, and research applications.

Combining Complementary Capabilities

“Bringing two industry-leading players together, with a combined 60 years in the photonics industry, will benefit the global laser industry,” says Travis Green, longtime owner and President of Alpine Research Optics. “ARO’s strong position in durable, long-life, high-damage-threshold coatings on tight-tolerance substrates, combined with Altechna’s expertise in designing laser optics and optomechanical assemblies, will raise the quality benchmark for laser companies worldwide.”

As part of the acquisition, Travis Green will remain President of ARO, reporting to Altechna and continuing to lead the experienced optics team in the U.S. entity.

Long-Term Growth Strategy in the U.S. Market

“ARO is critical to the long-term growth strategy of Altechna,” says Ed Yousse, Chief Business Development Officer and General Manager for Altechna’s U.S. brand. “By combining our durable coatings expertise with Altechna’s technological know-how, we will be able to offer tailored technological solutions at competitive prices for local and international businesses seeking flexibility beyond conventional providers.”