Succession Planning: Daughters Reject Company Takeover
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Tübingen-based private equity firm SHS Capital is making a important move in the medical technology sector with it’s investment in Ackermann, a medium-sized production specialist. This acquisition isn’t just about financial gain; it’s about building a strong, regional future for medical technology and nurturing the “hidden champions” within Germany’s industrial landscape.
A Strategic Acquisition: Why Ackermann?
SHS Capital, with its €270 million fund, is focusing on acquiring and growing medium-sized companies in the medical technology space. Ackermann,with its robust in-house production capabilities and established network,proved to be an ideal “Kern-DNA” – a foundational company around which SHS intends to build a larger group.According to Cornelius Maas, partner at SHS Capital, the plan is to acquire additional companies from the medium-sized sector and forge strategic partnerships to accelerate growth. SHS brings significant expertise in the medical industry to the table, promising active involvement through an advisory board role within Ackermann. “The project is in the long term to give the region a strong future perspective,” maas stated, highlighting the commitment to local economic progress.
Ackermann’s Future: A Blend of Continuity and Growth
Rolf Ackermann, the current owner, isn’t stepping away instantly. He plans to remain actively involved in the company for the next five to seven years, ensuring a smooth transition and continued leadership. His goal is to retire knowing he’s left the company in a strong position for continued success.
This isn’t simply a handover; it’s a partnership. Ackermann’s existing strengths - its extensive in-house production and strong network – will be leveraged, while SHS Capital’s financial resources and industry knowledge will fuel expansion and innovation. You can expect to see Ackermann playing a pivotal role in consolidating and strengthening the medical technology sector.
Understanding SHS Capital: A Deep Dive
Founded in 1993,SHS Capital operates as a private equity provider. But what does that really meen? Essentially, SHS pools capital from a diverse range of investors – individuals, foundations, pension funds, and entrepreneurs – and invests it in promising healthcare companies across Europe.
Their current fund, totaling €270 million, is their sixth to date. SHS’s strategy centers on investing in medium-sized businesses, with a particular focus on creating a leading medical technology group. Their profit model typically involves acquiring a stake in a company, nurturing its growth, and then ultimately selling it for a return.
SHS isn’t solely focused on established businesses. They’ve also demonstrated a willingness to invest in early-stage companies. A prime exmaple is Emerging Implant Technologies (EIT) in Wurmlingen. SHS acquired a majority stake in EIT in 2016 and successfully sold it to Johnson & Johnson in 2018 – a testament to their ability to identify and cultivate high-potential ventures. This track record demonstrates SHS’s commitment to long-term value creation and their ability to navigate the complexities of the medical technology market.
This investment in Ackermann signals a continued commitment to supporting the backbone of German industry – the innovative, frequently enough overlooked, medium-sized companies that drive economic growth and technological advancement. It’s a move that benefits not only the companies involved but also the region and the future of medical technology as a whole.