Highly attractive investment / leading global manufacturer of systems, modules and components for the truck industry / multiple growth drivers
Frankfurt, 10 June 2008 – Cinven, one of the leading international private equity firms, today announced that it has reached an agreement to acquire German truck supplier JOST group (“JOST”). The purchase price is undisclosed. JOST is a leading global manufacturer of systems, modules and components for the truck industry, including fifth wheels, towing hitches, landing gears and articulated steering systems.
The company is active in all continents with its strong brands JOST, ROCKINGER, REGENSBURGER and TRIDEC. Several strong growth drivers provide exceptional expansion opportunities: outstanding products with excellent brand reputation; a diversified customer base with high loyalty; growing international markets as well as acquisition opportunities in the core business and adjacent segments.
JOST employs approx. 2,000 people in 20 countries and has a highly successful and sustainable business model that combines organic and external growth. JOST has grown significantly faster than the market over the past five years and has been able to increase annual sales at double digit rates on average to around €445 million in 2007.
Last month JOST completed the acquisition of Tridec, one of the leading manufacturers of mechanical and hydraulic steering systems. Through the acquisition of TRIDEC, both companies will benefit from positive growth synergies: the product portfolio of JOST will be complemented and sales activities of TRIDEC will benefit from the worldwide distribution capabilities of JOST.
Bruno Schick, Principal at Cinven Germany, said: “Demand for trucks will continue to grow due to strong economic growth in Eastern Europe and Asia. We are delighted to have acquired JOST, a fast growing leader whose brand stands for quality and safety. We will support the strategy of the outstanding management team and we will invest in growth, geographic expansion, product extension and the further strengthening of its market leadership.”
JOST holds excellent market positions in its core markets. With locations in Eastern Europe, China, Brazil and India, JOST is also well-positioned for further development in these important growth markets. JOST has been active in China, the largest market for the truck industry worldwide, since 1992.
Lars Brorsen, Chief Executive Officer of JOST group: “With Cinven, we are delighted to have a partner with whom we can continue our successful growth strategy. Cinven will financially support our ongoing international expansion as well as additional acquisitions. JOST is well positioned to further expand our leading position.”
The transaction is subject to regulatory clearance.