Hitachi Rail has completed its acquisition of UK-based rail technology firm Omnicom from infrastructure group Balfour Beatty, bolstering its capabilities in digital rail infrastructure monitoring and predictive maintenance.

Initially announced in January 2025, the acquisition is expected to significantly enhance Hitachi Rail’s proprietary digital asset management platform, HMAX, which is already deployed across more than 2,000 trains globally. HMAX is designed to support operators with advanced diagnostics, asset monitoring, and lifecycle management.

Omnicom, known for its specialized software and hardware solutions for surveying, inspecting, and monitoring rail infrastructure, brings cutting-edge technology that leverages edge computing and machine learning to the table. These tools can be mounted on in-service trains and capture daily terabytes of imagery and data. The system enables near real-time detection of anomalies in rail infrastructure, including tracks and overhead lines, improving the efficiency of trackside maintenance planning.

“This acquisition will help us accelerate the delivery of AI-enabled solutions to rail operators globally,” said Sanjay Razdan, Managing Director of Omnicom, in a joint statement. “With Hitachi’s global digital reach and investment in technology, we’re poised to take our infrastructure monitoring systems to the next level.”

Hitachi Rail Executive Director and Chief Technology Officer Koji Agatsuma also highlighted the strategic significance of the deal. “Omnicom’s solutions align well with our vision for digital railway systems. This move strengthens our global offering in delivering actionable insights, predictive analytics, and end-to-end support for transport operators,” he said.

Integrating Omnicom’s technology into Hitachi’s HMAX platform allows real-time data processing and intelligent filtering. Only critical information is relayed to operational control centers, reducing the need for manual analysis and enabling faster decision-making for maintenance crews.

The move reflects a broader industry trend toward digitalization in rail operations. By combining advanced monitoring with artificial intelligence, operators can shift from reactive to predictive maintenance models—minimizing service disruptions, reducing costs, and enhancing safety.

According to Balfour Beatty’s official press release, the transaction also underscores Hitachi Rail’s continued investment in smart mobility technologies to support sustainable and efficient rail transport systems. With this acquisition, Hitachi Rail is set to deliver an upgraded HMAX solution that better serves the evolving needs of transport authorities and rail operators worldwide.