The identity document sector, long associated with physical printing, is evolving rapidly under the influence of new technologies. IN Groupe's acquisition of Idemia's Smart Identity division illustrates this transformation.
Idemia is a French company specializing in secure identification technologies and biometrics. Formed in 2016 following the merger of Morpho (a former Safran subsidiary) and Oberthur Technologies, Idemia has rapidly established itself as a world leader in the manufacture of digital security systems, with activities in a variety of sectors including identity documents, secure payments, and public safety.
With the acquisition of the Smart Identity division, IN Groupe takes a major step forward in its development. Historically anchored in the secure printing of passports and identity cards, the company is now reorienting itself towards more technological solutions, particularly digital ones. This acquisition, valued at 850 million euros, should enable the group to achieve sales of one billion euros and double its workforce. By integrating Idemia Smart Identity's 250 employees in France, IN Groupe extends its influence and strengthens its production capacities on a European and global scale.
A stronger international presence
This acquisition also strengthens IN Groupe's geographical presence. While 60% of its sales are already generated outside France, the acquisition of Smart Identity will enable it to expand further in Africa, Asia and Latin America. Idemia's production sites in the Netherlands and the Czech Republic offer new capacities to meet the growing international demand for secure identity documents. This geographic expansion is essential to consolidate IN Groupe's position in the face of increasing competition, particularly from major technology groups such as Thales.
The market for identity documents, whether physical or digital, is undergoing rapid consolidation. To respond to increasingly demanding international calls for tender, it is crucial for players in the sector to achieve critical mass. This operation will enable IN Groupe to compete with the biggest players in the market, particularly in strategic regions such as Asia, where the Group has hitherto had less of a presence.
