AEQUITA übernimmt Automobilzulieferer Willi Elbe Group
AEQUITA acquired the automotive supplier Willi Elbe Group, a leading Tier-1 supplier of steering and driveline technology, specializing in highly engineered, custom-made systems for premium OEMs. Willi Elbe is headquartered in Tamm, Germany, and generates approx. EUR 180m in revenues with around 1,000 employees across its production and R&D sites in Germany, Switzerland, Norway, Bulgaria, China, and Mexico.
Willi Elbe develops and manufactures highly sophisticated, technologically advanced steering and driveline systems such as manual and electrical steering columns, intermediate shafts, cardan and propeller shafts. Willi Elbe has a profound focus on lightweight construction and is the global technology leader for lightweight steering systems. Building on its world class R&D team, Willi Elbe has been able to establish itself as a strategic partner to the German premium OEMs.
AEQUITA was selected as the new owner for the group, following consultation with Willi Elbe’s key stakeholders, employees, long-standing customers and shareholders. AEQUITA’s vision and overall strategic concept for Willi Elbe impressed throughout the tender process. Alexander Wohak, Managing Director of Willi Elbe and part of the third generation of the shareholding family, commented “after a very competitive and comprehensive selection process, we concluded that AEQUITA would be the ideal new owner and partner for the Willi Elbe Group“ adding, „the combination of industry expertise and restructuring experience of AEQUITA will enable us to further develop the Willi Elbe Group and expand our strong market position“.
Dr. Axel Geuer, founder and chairman of the board of AEQUITA, commented „we are looking forward to the cooperation with the employees of Willi Elbe“ adding „we were convinced about Willi Elbe’s outstanding technological capabilities and its future potential since day one. With our experience and support, we want to further expand Willi Elbe’s strong positioning in the field of state-of-the-art steering technology, based on the established global production network”.
About AEQUITA
AEQUITA is a Munich-based family office investing in special situations including corporate carve-outs, successions, and recovery situations across Europe. With a strong capital base, entrepreneurial expertise and a partnership approach, the team focuses on the acquisition and long-term value enhancement of companies that can benefit from an operational engagement. AEQUITA brings a fresh and sound view to all areas of the business, such as sales development, production optimization and efficiency measures, which can help management to drive sustainable growth. AEQUITA contributes not only the capital, but also the vision, inspiration and operational impetus needed to reach the next stage in the development of its companies and their success stories.