Aurelius Group acquires Weck

In a significant development for the German glass manufacturing industry, the renowned glass producer Weck, based in Wehr-Öflingen, Baden-Württemberg, has become a part of Aurelius. The complete sale of WECK's operational business not only ensures a smooth transition in ownership but also bolsters the capital foundation for future growth. Wintergerst Societät für Unternehmer-Beratung played a pivotal role in facilitating the acquisition through an international bidding process.

Weck: A Legacy in Glass Manufacturing:
The Weck Group, headquartered in Wehr-Öflingen, boasts a rich history spanning over a century. With a workforce exceeding 350 employees, the family-owned company specializes in producing threadless glass containers for preserving and storing food through the traditional canning process. The term "Einwecken," coined to describe this method, has even found its way into the German dictionary. Additionally, Weck manufactures candle jars and packaging glass for the food industry at its Bonn facility.

Since 1982, Eberhard Hackelsberger, the great-grandson of the company's founder, has led the enterprise. The need for an external investor arose due to the absence of a family succession plan. In 2023, the company faced financial challenges triggered by increased raw material and energy costs amid the Ukraine conflict, coupled with substantial investments in modernizing the glassworks.

Wintergerst's Role in the Resurgence:
Wintergerst Societät für Unternehmer-Beratung played a crucial role in identifying a financially robust investor to support WECK's future growth. In response to the challenging market conditions, a team of experienced restructuring and corporate finance experts developed a comprehensive restructuring plan and business strategy. Simultaneously, an international M&A process was initiated to find a suitable investor.

Aurelius, a globally operating Alternative Investment Group specializing in complex investments with significant operational improvement potential, emerged victorious in a competitive bidding process against several international contenders. The internationally recognized Weck brand presents Aurelius with the opportunity to tap into attractive growth potentials and enhance the group's profitability. Eberhard Hackelsberger will continue to provide advisory support to the company.

Testimonials from Key Figures:
Eberhard Hackelsberger, CEO of J. Weck GmbH u. Co. KG, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration, stating, "I am glad that, with the Wintergerst team, we had experienced and professional M&A advisors by our side. Thanks to Wintergerst's broad expertise, we found an investor who wants to continue the business in a future-oriented way, offering a long-term perspective."

Volker Wintergerst, Founder and CEO of Wintergerst Societät für Unternehmer-Beratung, highlighted their competence in restructuring and corporate finance, stating, "Our extensive M&A experience at the intersection of family businesses and private equity funds was a significant advantage. The interdisciplinary collaboration of our internal teams and our international network were crucial success factors in realizing this transaction in a highly challenging market environment."

Wintergerst