The acquisition strengthens SF-Filter Group’s position as an independent distribution platform for mobile and industrial filters in the European market and expands its presence in Belgian Flanders. Hermans Brems' location will continue to be operated under the current management, and the employees will be fully retained. SF-Filter will primarily provide operational support and drive the further growth of Hermans Brems by giving the distributor access to its entire range of over 140,000 filters and support digitalization investment.
“We are pleased to welcome Hermans Brems, a long-standing distribution partner, into the group, strengthening our regional presence in the Flemish market,” said Daniel Infanger, CEO of the SF-Filter Group. "The acquisition marks a successful start to 2024, where we intend to continue our growth strategy through further acquisitions."
Geert Kleynen, managing director of Hermans Brems, said: "We look back on extremely positive experiences with the previous majority owner, HSH Invest NV. For the next stage of development, we have found an important strategic partner in SF-Filter, who has already distinguished themselves through successful collaboration in the past. By continuing our business operations from our location in Flanders, we can ensure the best possible support for our customers, now further expanded through full access to the wide range of products and services from SF-Filter."
Founded in 1968, SF-Filter provides filter solutions for applications in areas such as air, fuel, hydraulics, oil, and pneumatics. Under the guidance of the funds advised by the investment company Equistone, SF-Filter has been pursuing an ambitious growth strategy since 2022, aiming to continuously expand its market position as the preferred filter partner throughout Europe through further acquisitions. In October 2023, the group acquired Germany’s Busse & Kuntze Filter GmbH.