With the acquisition of Kahle Automation, BBS Automation is continuing its growth strategy in the MedTech/Life Sciences sector. The Lombardy-based company adds proprietary technologies and extensive know-how to BBS' technology portfolio and becomes the new global center for BBS' MedTech/Life Sciences activities. The acquisition complements the existing BBS hubs in Chicago (USA) and Kunshan (China) and accelerates the development of BBS into a diversified, leading global automation provider in the MedTech/Life Sciences sector.

Kahle is led by CEO Federico Ceresetti and President Julie Logothetis and has a long track record of profitable growth. The company is primarily active in the market segments of syringes and needles, fluid delivery, catheters and diagnostic devices, where it has built up market-leading expertise and long-standing customer relationships. The company employs approximately 110 people who serve customers in Europe and overseas.

Kahle is BBS' fourth acquisition under EQT ownership and follows the acquisition of ANT Solutions, a Polish digital factory solutions provider in November 2018, TEAM (now BBS Winding), a founder-led Italian specialist in winding technology for electric motors in May 2019, and ReaLead (now BBS Kunshan), an automation solutions provider offering a wide range of automation solutions including die-cast parts, parts for electric vehicles and the 5G telecommunications sector, in October 2019.

Kahle will continue to be led by its management team led by CEO Federico Ceresetti and will retain its brand name under the name "Kahle - a BBS Company". The transaction is subject to regulatory approval. The financial details of the transaction have not been disclosed.

Josef Wildgruber, CEO BBS Automation: "BBS has a long tradition of serving MedTech customers in Europe, Asia and America. We are very pleased to enter into a partnership with Kahle and to pass on Kahle's patented technologies and know-how to BBS customers. With the acquisition of Kahle, BBS Automation has a market-leading MedTech/Life Sciences technology portfolio that is well positioned for further growth at our global locations."

Federico Ceresetti, CEO Kahle Automation: "The partnership with BBS Automation was the logical next step in Kahle's development. With access to BBS's world-class customer base, global reach and market-leading reputation, BBS will help Kahle take on larger projects and continue its successful growth trajectory. We are very proud to be part of the BBS family and to contribute to the expansion of BBS' global MedTech and Life Sciences business."