Zeiss, the German-based maker of optics and optoelectronics, and Palero, a German investment company, signed an agreement to spin off Zeiss’ Hunting & Nature business into a new, independent company. Palero will be the sole owner of the Zeiss Hunting & Nature operation, and Zeiss will license its brand to the new company.
Terms of the deal were not disclosed.
The completion of the transaction is planned for the second half of 2026, depending on the necessary approval and spin-off procedures. The teams and functions, as well as locations in Germany and the regions, will transition to the new company.
Palero, based in Munich, has over 15 years of experience in carve-outs for the SME [small and medium-sized enterprises] segment. Palero is partnering with existing management and employees on the transaction.
Zeiss said, “In a market characterized by focused and medium-sized enterprises, Palero, as a medium-sized group, will be able to leverage growth potentials more quickly and comprehensively. In the new setup, the business will continue to represent itself as a strong player in North America, Europe, and Asia and grow with innovations. The goal of the transaction is to create an organization that enables even closer customer and market proximity and can fully utilize the advantages of an independent company, such as in the supply chain and collaboration with customers.”
“We bring together the best of both worlds – our strength in innovation and our product portfolio for analog optics and digital solutions as well as trail cameras with the advantages of an independent setup,” said Stefan Hämmerle, CEO, Zeiss Hunting & Nature.
Hämmerle added, “In 2026, we will launch new products in all four product categories: analog optics for the premium and mid-range segments, trail cameras and digital solutions. Collaboration with customers and partners, as well as service for hunting and nature enthusiasts, will continue to expand without interruption.”
Zeiss said Zeiss Hunting & Nature will continue its focus on hunting, nature observation, and birding and remains committed to investing in research and development, innovation, design, concepts, and the marketing of products under the Zeiss brand. Zeiss said, “The coming months will be used to prepare for a smooth transition and the launch of the new company.”
Image courtesy Zeiss
