Durr

Germany-based Dürr has unveiled plans to merge its aircraft assembly technology business with Broetje-Automation Group.

As part of the deal, Dürr will acquire an 11% stake in Broetje-Automation in addition to receiving cash.

The transaction will form an aircraft assembly systems supplier with annual revenues of around €150m.

Around 120 Dürr Aircraft employees will be transferred to Broetje-Automation.

Dürr said in a statement that the merger will create a supplier with outstanding expertise in complete assembly lines from one source, and will open up growth opportunities which the two companies would not have access to if they operated independently.

"With the integration into Broetje-Automation, we are now taking the next step: joining forces to unlock further growth potential."

Wiefelstede-based Broetje-Automation operates subsidiaries in the US and China and a number of sales and service bases in America, Asia and Europe. The company reported sales of €100m in 2013.

Dürr CEO Ralf Dieter said: "With the integration into Broetje-Automation, we are now taking the next step: joining forces to unlock further growth potential.

"Our customers benefit from a complementary technology portfolio as well as global reach in terms of order execution and service.

Dürr aircraft business head Uwe Siewert said: "Together, Broetje-Automation and Dürr can provide the aircraft industry not only with excellent machinery and equipment for individual technologies but also with complete systems solutions."

The company operates from Bietigheim-Bissingen and the Wyhlen production sites. Its aircraft business reported sales of €35m in 2013.

Image: The deal will create an aircraft assembly systems supplier with annual revenues of around €150m. Photo: courtesy of Dürr AG.

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