Uvex Group, the German manufacturer of helmets and goggles for skiing, cycling and equestrian purposes, announced that Warburg Pincus, a private equity firm, will acquire a majority interest in the company. The owner families Winter and Grau will retain a significant minority stake and will be actively involved in the future growth of the business.
Founded in 1926 by Philipp M. Winter, who manufactured protective eyewear, Uvex Group also makes protective safety equipment. It also makes sunglasses and footwear soles. Brands include Alpina, Filtral, Heckel, HexArmor, Hiplok.Laservision, Primetta, and Uvex.
Uvex said that partnering with Warburg Pincus will help the firm accelerate global growth, expand its international presence, refine its premium product offering, and grow in new segments. The support will also drive growth through mergers and acquisitions, building on the successful transactions to date.
Michael Winter, managing partner and CEO of Uvex Group, said, “The brand promise ‘protecting people’ has guided us for 100 years. As a fourth-generation family-owned company, we are committed to shaping the next phase of our corporate development with a strong growth partner. Our goal is to further increase the resilience of the Uvex Group in the future and remain the first choice for our customers. We are confident that we have found such a partner in Warburg Pincus and look forward to a successful collaboration.”
Tobias Weidner, managing director at Warburg Pincus, commented, “Congratulations to the Winter and Grau families for building and leading Uvex Group over the last 100 years into the strong business and brand it is today. We are excited to partner with them to continue that journey together. We share the Uvex Group team’s vision to become the global market leader in protecting people through protective equipment. Together with the family and the management team we are looking forward to bringing Uvex Group’s premium products to more people around the world.”
The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals.
Image courtesy Uvex
