Alibaba Cloud, the digital technology and intelligence backbone of Alibaba Group, will integrate the Virtual PLCnext Control software solution from Phoenix Contact as part of its solution for manufacturing industry.

Festo, manufacturer of pneumatic and electrical automation technology, will use PLCnext Technology, the open ecosystem for modern automation from Phoenix Contact, in future intelligent devices.

The Phoenix Contact Group has acquired Canadian company iS5 Communications Inc. based in Mississauga, Ontario.