Clearwater advises LÄPPLE on the sale of FLT to GFEP

We have advised LÄPPLE Group (LÄPPLE), a globally renowned supplier of press parts, bodyshell components and standard parts, on the sale of its automation solutions division, FLT GmbH (FLT), to private equity firm GFEP GmbH (GFEP).

Headquartered in Haßmersheim, Germany, FLT is a prominent player in the automation industry. The company develops, produces, and installs intelligent automation solutions for customers worldwide across the automotive, aerospace, and general industry sectors. Its product portfolio includes standardised products, such as gantry robots and robot axes, as well as system solutions for linking production systems or assembly automation. FLT supports customers throughout the entire product life cycle from consulting and planning to digital engineering, design, implementation, and services. FLT employs around 190 people across its headquarters and branches in the US and China.

LÄPPLE is a globally active, independent supplier of moulded parts, body modules, and standard parts. Due to its innovative product development, state-of-the-art technology, and around 2,000 dedicated employees, LÄPPLE has stood out for its quality and reliability for over 100 years. The group provides products and services tailored to meet the specific needs of its customers, such as forming solutions for car body construction and the supply of standard parts. LÄPPLE serves major automotive manufacturers, toolmakers, mechanical engineering companies, and tier-one suppliers.

GFEP is an owner-managed investment company with offices in Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Munich. GFEP invests in technology companies from various industries, such as electrical engineering and electromobility, mechanical engineering, and the mechanical engineering supply industry. With the acquisition of FLT, GFEP is expanding its technology platform to include a specialist in automation technology, thereby strengthening FLT’s position as a leading provider of automation solutions. FLT will continue to operate independently under its new ownership.

By divesting FLT, LÄPPLE continues its strategic course. LÄPPLE can now focus even more on its core businesses, LÄPPLE Automotive and FIBRO Normalien, unlocking growth opportunities for both divisions. Furthermore, LÄPPLE plans to drive growth in the education segment of its training company.

„The sale of FLT was not an easy decision, as the company has a solid foundation but no longer fits in with the overall strategy of LÄPPLE. Clearwater guided us with a targeted approach through this important transaction. We are very pleased having found such a strategically suitable buyer like GFEP, who will enable FLT to realise its full potential.“ – Stephan Itter, spokesman of the Board, LÄPPLE

„Given the challenging market environment, we are very pleased to have identified a suitable solution for FLT and LÄPPLE, and we are convinced that GFEP will be an excellent partner for FLT’s continued growth and success.“ – Markus Otto, Managing Partner, Clearwater

www.clearwatercf.com/experience/transactions/clearwater-advises-laepple-on-the-sale-of-flt-to-gfep/