August 27 2020
PINOVA Capital invests in AT - Automation Technology GmbH
PINOVA Capital, an independent Munich-based private equity firm, acquired the majority stake in AT – Automation Technology GmbH („AT“) in Bad Oldesloe/Schleswig-Holstein in August 2020.
AT - Automation Technology GmbH was founded in 1998 by Michael Wandelt and Dr. André Kasper. The company is a global technology leader in the field of special imaging sensors. It develops and produces 3D sensors and sensor solutions for industrial automation as well as smart infrared cameras for condition monitoring and inspection tasks (e.g. non-destructive testing). With over 20 years of application experience AT offers both, standardized and tailor-made product solutions, that are used in various end customer segments such as automotive, aviation, plastics processing or electronics.
In recent years, AT has successfully completed the change from a provider of application-specific systems to a technology leader in the area of scalable "off-the-shelf" product solutions to better exploit the growth opportunities available. With the market launch of the world's first smart infrared camera as an "all-in-one" solution, which makes the use of computers, external interfaces and special thermal imaging software obsolete, AT also offers a globally unique and scalable product in the infrared range.
The previous managing partners will continue their responsibilities as managing directors of AT after the transaction and will also remain with the company with a minority stake as partners. Michael Wandelt, co-founder and co-CEO of AT, explains: “AT is a traditionally engineering-driven company and has grown very strongly over the past few years. We are pleased to have found a perfectly matching partner in PINOVA, who supports us with its experience in the further development of the company and in setting up the structures necessary for further company growth."
Herbert Seggewiß, Partner at PINOVA, comments: “The acquisition of AT represents a very attractive addition to our existing portfolio. We are glad that we were able to prevail in the competitive sales process and now, together with Mr. Wandelt and Dr. Kasper, will drive the further development of AT in the next few years and be able to use the growth opportunities available on the market. "
About PINOVA Capital GmbH
PINOVA Capital is an independent investment firm focusing on equity capital investments in innovative mid-market companies with strong growth. Target companies should be headquartered in German-speaking countries, with revenues between € 10 million und € 75 million and capital requirements between € 10 million and € 50 million.
Contact PINOVA Capital:
Herbert Seggewiß
Partner
herbert.seggewiss@pinovacapital.com
PINOVA Capital GmbH
Viktualienmarkt 8
80331 Munich
Germany