Epta S.p.A. acquires the refrigeration, air conditioning, and ventilation division of HEIFO, continuing its growth trajectory in Germany

EPTA x HEIFO image

Epta S.p.A. (EPTA), a global player in the commercial refrigeration sector, continues its expansion and strengthens its presence in Northern Germany with the acquisition of the refrigeration, air conditioning, and ventilation division of HEIFO GmbH & Co. KG (HEIFO). HEIFO is a fourth-generation family-owned company based in Osnabrück, operating in the fields of refrigeration, air conditioning, ventilation technology, and Professional Food Solutions. The transaction involves the transfer of all refrigeration activities, generating around 25 million euros in revenue in 2022 and employing more than 120 staff, from HEIFO to a new company (HEIFO Kältetechnik GmbH), which is now 100 percent owned by EPTA, ensuring the continuity of day-to-day operations. The scope of the transaction does not include the Professional Food Solutions division (HEIFO PFS-Group), which remains with HEIFO GmbH & Co. KG.

Epta, an even stronger provider of sustainable and efficient solutions

Thanks to HEIFO's expertise, EPTA will further strengthen its role as a provider of sustainable and energy-efficient solutions for commercial refrigeration. This transaction will expand the range of services to include engineering and management of large refrigeration systems, as well as climate and ventilation solutions. With HEIFO's well-structured network of technicians and excellent know-how, EPTA will be able to further enhance its position as a comprehensive provider for the food retail and entire food and beverage industry.

The integration of HEIFO Kältetechnik GmbH into an international group like EPTA, with its long-standing experience and established market presence, will foster the creation of new synergies, help to constantly improve assembly and service activities, and support the Green Transition.

"The entrepreneurial activities of HEIFO in the field of refrigeration are fully aligned with Epta's strategy, which is why we are delighted with the signing of this agreement. With this acquisition, new growth and success opportunities are opening up for us as a comprehensive provider in the market," explains Marco Nocivelli, Chairman of the Board of Directors and CEO of Epta S.p.A. He further states, "This transaction advances our geographic expansion goals in regions with high growth potential such as Germany and enables the development of further business areas within the group. It marks the ninth acquisition within the last four years, and, like the recently concluded joint venture agreement, it is an important milestone in achieving our development goals."

The completion of the transaction is subject to customary conditions, including approval by the antitrust authorities, expected by the end of 2023.

EPTA was supported in the transaction by Clairfield International as financial advisor and Haver & Mailander as legal advisor. HEIFO has engaged Ecovis as financial advisor and Schindhelm as legal advisor in connection with the transaction.