Clearwater International advises CGS Management on the sale of ICG International Cutting Holding

Clearwater International has advised CGS Management AG (CGS) on the sale of ICG International Cutting Holding GmbH (ICG), a part of ICG International Cutting Group, to a fund advised by Quantum Capital Partners GmbH (Quantum). The transaction scope mainly comprises the market-known schoen + sandt machinery GmbH, and the associated locations in Pirmasens, Germany, Eger, Hungary and Beverly, US with a total workforce of approximately 160 employees. Freeman Schwabe Machinery Inc based in Cincinnati, US, which is also part of the Group, has been sold to the US management via a buy-out.

ICG is one of the leading, globally active manufacturers of die-cutting machines for non-metallic applications. The Company’s product portfolio comprises three product lines of die-cutting machines and one business unit for specialised automated solutions, serving a blue-chip customer base from a wide range of end-markets including the automotive, consumers, industrials and building materials sectors.

CGS is an independent, experienced investment firm based in Pfäffikon, Switzerland. CGS specialises in building medium-sized companies in industrial sectors into international groups. Since 1999, CGS funds have been investing in platform companies in Europe’s German-speaking countries and making add-on acquisitions worldwide.

Quantum is a manager of funds who invests in corporate carve-outs and other special situations across Europe. The Quantum operations are managed through its Munich Headquarters, as well as its office in Madrid. Quantum acquires companies with significant potential for operational improvements, growth, and development. As an active and responsible owner, Quantum Group works closely with local management to ensure that its subsidiaries implement a continuous development plan and growth strategy.

During the ownership of CGS, ICG has focused on the core business of punching machines and successfully expanded the promising business area of industrial automation, creating the basis for sustainable future growth.

Quantum intends to support ICG, in close cooperation with the management teams, in its next phase of development.

„CGS hands over to Quantum a market-leading and well-reputed machinery company in its relevant segment prepared for industrial automation and ready for the next development stage. The Clearwater International team guided and supported us excellently throughout the whole process. We have thoroughly enjoyed working with such an experienced team who enabled us to close the deal in a forgiven timeframe.“ – Thierry Biggoer, Investment Director, CGS Management AG
 
„It has been a pleasure to work with CGS and the management team of ICG. We believe that both, schoen + sandt and Freeman Schwabe Machinery, will benefit from the sale to Quantum respectively from the MBO. We wish both companies the best of success for the future and their further development.“ – Markus Otto, Managing Partner, Clearwater International