Oberthur Technologies

In 1842, a master printer named François-Charles Oberthur laid the foundation for what would become Oberthur Technologies. Oberthur Technologies specialized in secure technologies. It offered systems, solutions, and services related to smart cards and secure identity documents. Think payment cards, SIM cards, access cards, and even passports. Oberthur Technologies evolved from its printing roots to become a global player in digital security. This evolution took a significant leap in 1984 when Jean-Pierre Savare took the helm of the security printing division, François-Charles Oberthur Fiduciaire. This marked a pivot towards smart card technology with the creation of François-Charles Oberthur Card Systems in 1985. Oberthur Technologies continued to grow through strategic acquisitions. It absorbed companies like De La Rue Card Systems in 1999, expanding its card business significantly. Later, acquisitions like XponCard in 2008 and NagraID Security in 2014 broadened their reach and expertise. By 2007, the various Oberthur entities consolidated under the single banner of Oberthur Technologies. At its peak, Oberthur Technologies employed over 6,500 people and operated in 50 countries. They invested heavily in research and development, with over 700 engineers working in 12 research centers. Oberthur Technologies underwent a rebranding as “OT the M Company” in 2013. This shift emphasized their focus on mobile security solutions. However, Oberthur Technologies’ independent journey concluded in 2017 when it merged with Morpho. This merger created a new entity known as Idemia. This marked the end of an era for Oberthur Technologies, but its legacy lives on in the world of digital security.