Karl Eugen Fischer
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Karl Eugen Fischer

Karl Eugen Fischer is a leading supplier and manufacturer of custom-made cutting machines.

Founded in 1940, Karl Eugen Fischer developed the first cord cutting system for the tyre industry in the 1970s. These systems assemble plies and breakers that give tyres their shape and provide stability. The business has a significantly large global market share, having supplied over 500 machines worldwide to date.

VALUE CREATION

Equistone Funds have supported Karl Eugen Fischer’s plans to continue to improve machine functionality and the automated production of its cutting systems as well as promoting the servicing side of the business.

Having established a strong reputation as one of the most reliable suppliers in the industry, with its machines recognised as the “gold standard”, the business has consistently achieved a stable performance.

Since Equistone’s investment, Karl Eugen Fischer has constantly innovated and developed its cord cutting systems with a long-term view to maintaining its leading market position, with a 70 per cent market share.

Organic growth has been achieved through the business expanding into new regions and gaining new blue chip customers. Furthermore, Karl Eugen Fischer’s workforce has grown steadily from 490 to almost 550 at its manufacturing site and headquarters in Burgkunstadt, Germany.

THE EXIT

Equistone Fund IV sold its investment in Karl Eugen Fischer to Deutsche Beteiligungs AG.

HOLDING PERIOD

Aug 2013 - Jun 2018

Country

Germany

Sector

Industrials

Revenue Progression

€75m / €90m

Employees at ACQ.

490

Investment Type

Secondary MBO

Since Equistone’s investment in 2013, the functionality of the machinery has improved and there has been a steady increase in its level of automation. The company has also successfully extended its servicing business and broadened its customer base with internationally renowned companies.