Buhler acquires Aeroglide
The Uzwil, Switzerland-based Buhler Technology Group has acquired all the shares of the U.S. firm Aeroglide Inc. through the signing and closing of a definitive agreement with Compass Diversified Holdings (CODI).
Aeroglide, a mechanical engineering company that is a market leader in the field of drying and other thermal processes, is active in the food, feed, and industrial sectors.
Aeroglide has supplemented the Buhler product range for years as a supplier. The acquisition will enable the future joint development of optimally matched solutions. Buhler will operate Aeroglide as an autonomous center of competence in the form of a business unit.
Aeroglide, formerly a family-owned company, can look back upon a success story of over 60 years that has maintained a leading market position, especially in recent years. With approximately 230 employees, the company generated sales revenues in 2007 of US$64 million. The company, which is headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina, is active worldwide and operates sales sites in the U.S., Asia, and Europe. Aeroglide supplies various thermal processes and produces specialized production systems. Aeroglide has established an international reputation especially in the drying of foods, feeds and of industrial products.
Aeroglide and Buhler have maintained a close business relationship for years. The drying systems of Aeroglide, which are based on belt conveyor technology, complete Buhler’s portfolio especially in the field of extrusion. The acquisition of this long-standing supplier creates the basis for joint development of optimally matched, complete industrial solutions. The combination will open up new opportunities for customers of Buhler and Aeroglide alike. Buhler plans to maintain Aeroglide’s operations as an autonomous center of competence for thermal process and drying technology at the company’s existing site in Raleigh.
Buhler is a global leader in process engineering, especially production technologies for making foods and engineering materials. Buhler is present in over 140 countries and has some 6900 employees. In fiscal 2007, the Group generated sales of CHF 1770 million.
Compass Diversified Holdings is a leading acquirer and manager of middle market businesses in the North American economy and is listed on the Nasdaq under the symbol “CODI.
