Sale of a crane and lifting technology business

The crane and lifting technology sector is undergoing a transformation. Automated control systems, AI-supported sensor technology and digital interfaces are enhancing precision and safety, whilst sustainable drive concepts are gaining in importance. These developments open up new opportunities for business owners planning to hand over the reins or sell their business. intelligentis supports you discreetly, systematically and with in-depth industry knowledge, from the preparatory stages right through to the handover of your life’s work.

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Industry expertise rooted in corporate responsibility

Matthias Ehnert · Managing Director of intelligentis

Matthias Ehnert is a managing partner at intelligentis and a recognised expert in crane and lifting technology. He has been advising on company sales in this technically demanding and investment-intensive market for many years and is well acquainted with the specific characteristics of the sector.

His in-depth understanding of the sector, combined with a robust national and international network of strategic buyers, investors and industry partners, forms the basis for successful and discreet business sales. Business owners benefit from clear process management, a high level of discretion and personalised support throughout all stages of the sale.

Market situation
Services
Achievements

Current market situation and specific features of crane and lifting technology

intelligentis continuously monitors the market for corporate transactions in the crane and lifting technology sector. Strategic buyers are pursuing targeted growth strategies through acquisitions in order to expand their service portfolios and strengthen their regional presence.

Alongside international groups such as Konecranes and Palfinger, medium-sized corporate groups and foreign investors are becoming increasingly active. Regionally based crane manufacturing and crane service companies with stable customer relationships are particularly sought after. The sector is characterised by high technical requirements, long-term service contracts and a strong dependence on investment cycles. These specific features have a significant influence on both the approach to buyers and the valuation of companies.

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Services relating to the sale of crane and lifting equipment companies

intelligentis provides comprehensive support to entrepreneurs in the crane and lifting technology sector throughout the sales process. Its services range from structured sales preparation and market-oriented positioning to the targeted approach of suitable buyers. During the process, intelligentis determines a realistic enterprise value, coordinates communication with buyers and conducts negotiations with a clear focus on objectives. Discretion, reliability and relieving the business owner of the additional operational burden are paramount.

Even in complex situations such as succession planning, carve-outs or special scenarios, intelligentis brings in-depth industry knowledge and proven project management expertise to bear. Remuneration is performance-based and consistently geared towards a successful conclusion.

Leveraging sector expertise

Successful company sales in the crane and lifting technology sector

intelligentis regularly advises on company sales and investment transactions in the crane and lifting technology sector, as well as in related industrial markets. In doing so, it combines transactional experience, business acumen and industry expertise to provide structured and reliable support. Insights gained from successful transactions and from our own industry publications are directly incorporated into the positioning of companies, sharpening our focus on buyer requirements and market mechanisms.

One example of this is the Carrier project. intelligentis advised on the sale of the renowned crane service business Vetten Krane & Service GmbH as part of a self-administered insolvency process and successfully transferred the profitable business unit to new ownership structures.

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Industry Newsletter: Crane and Lifting Technology, May 2022

intelligentis published the ‘Crane and Lifting Technology’ industry newsletter for May 2022, in which it provided business owners with a targeted overview of current market developments, buyer activity and structural changes within the sector. The newsletter offers an in-depth analysis of transaction dynamics and highlights which strategic buyer groups are currently particularly active.

The focus is on trends in the service sector, the role of medium-sized buyers and international market entries.

The newsletter is available here: ‘Crane and Lifting Technology’ Industry Newsletter, May 2022.

Frequently asked questions about selling a business in the crane and lifting technology sector

Entrepreneurs in the crane and lifting technology sector face specific challenges when selling their businesses. These include market opportunities, buyer groups, valuation and the right timing.

In a personalised and confidential consultation, we address these issues on a case-by-case basis and outline specific courses of action. Here you will find key practical questions.

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What is the sales preparation process like for a company specialising in crane and lifting technology?

Preparation for the sale begins with an analysis of the company’s structure, profitability and strategic positioning. intelligentis identifies factors relevant to the company’s value, such as the proportion of service revenue, customer loyalty and technical infrastructure.

Building on this, documentation is organised and your company is positioned in a way that is clear and attractive to potential buyers.

What does the sales process look like for companies in the crane and lifting technology sector?

The sales process follows a clearly structured sequence. It ranges from discreetly approaching potential buyers, through discussions and the bidding phases, to the selection of suitable prospective buyers.

intelligentis manages the process centrally, coordinates communication and supports negotiations and due diligence to ensure confidentiality whilst maintaining full operational flexibility.

What does post-sale follow-up involve following the sale of a business?

Once the contract has been finalised, intelligentis supports the implementation of the agreed handover procedures. This includes assistance with transitional arrangements, management changes or earn-out structures.

The aim is to ensure a smooth transition and to safeguard the seller’s interests even after the closing.

How is the enterprise value determined in the crane and lifting technology sector?

The value of a company is determined by its profitability, service contracts, technical equipment and market position. intelligentis uses these factors to arrive at a realistic and market-based valuation, guided by the expectations of strategic buyers in the crane and lifting technology sector.

When is a good time to sell a business in the crane and lifting technology sector?

The right time to sell is determined by personal goals, a stable profit situation and active demand in the market.

intelligentis takes into account sector-specific factors such as capacity utilisation, service contracts and investment cycles in order to help you make an informed decision on the optimal timing.

Company sale in the crane and lifting technology sector