GKN is a global plant manufacturer that is divided into four divisions: Automotive, Powder Metallurgy, Land Systems and Aerospace. With more than 130 locations in over 30 countries, GKN has a global presence and market leadership positions in a range of product areas.
For GKN, the acquisition of Stromag represents an important step in implementing the strategy of developing GKN Land Systems into a global market leader in industrial power management and expanding its expertise in electromechanical components. Combined with GKN's existing business, Stromag will provide a strong platform to accelerate growth in existing markets, as well as open access to a range of attractive new industrial areas, including renewable energy.
Stromag, which will be integrated into GKN's Land Systems division, is a European market leader in mechanical drive technology with a focus on individual solutions for its customers based on its technological expertise. Core products are hydraulic couplings, electro-magnetic brakes and elastic couplings. The company supplies various end markets, e.g. with products for agricultural machinery, road construction machinery and machinery for mining, renewable energy or metal processing. The name Stromag enjoys a high international reputation. The company's headquarters is located in Unna (Germany) and has production facilities in Germany, France, USA, Brazil, India and China, as well as other sales representative offices. In 2010, Stromag generated sales of EUR 111 million (GBP 99 million, USD 156 million). The company employs around 850 people.
EQUITA is a bank-independent investment company based in Bad Homburg that invests in medium-sized companies in German-speaking countries through funds it exclusively manages. EQUITA emerged from the entrepreneurial tradition of the Harald Quandt family and generally holds a majority stake in companies that have significant growth and value-adding potential. The investment holding company has an open term and therefore also enables longer-term investments. Since it was founded in 1992, 28 company investments have been made. After the sale of Stromag, EQUITA's portfolio still includes ten companies.
