MUEGGE is a leading manufacturer and supplier of industrial microwave and plasma systems. Founded in 1979, the company is headquartered in Reichelsheim, Germany, with a branch in Modesto, California (USA), and another in Ruvo di Puglia, Italy. With its service and sales location in Singapore, MUEGGE is globally active with around 120 employees and supplies customers in more than 40 countries. MUEGGE offers solutions for a wide range of industrial applications, including the processing and manufacture of lab-grown diamonds and semiconductor components, applications in the field of power-to-X (e.g. hydrogen production), as well as drying and heating processes for food and other items and molecular extraction in chemistry.
The acquisition
NEXX Capital Beteiligungen V GmbH & Co. KG geschl. InvKG acquired MUEGGE from Meyer Burger AG in October 2020 in a competitive transaction process together with the management. The complex carve-out transaction under challenging conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic is a prime example of our extensive experience in transactions involving carve out-scenarios.
Investment Rationale
With the MUEGGE Group, a majority stake was acquired in a global leader in technology and innovation in the field of industrial microwave and plasma technology, which operates in an attractive niche market with sustainable growth. The carve-out situation enabled the strengthening of the independent platform in order to address customer requirements and growth potential in a more targeted manner. A strong and experienced management team supported the carve-out. In addition, the fragmented market for industrial microwave and plasma technology offers attractive potential for targeted consolidation and sustainable value creation.
Implementation of the growth concept
Investments in sales and marketing as well as research and development will further strengthen the company’s global presence and expand its technological leadership with product innovations. The ongoing professionalisation of various areas of the company includes sales, manufacturing, assembly and finance/controlling. Targeted investments in the organisation and infrastructure lay the foundation for profitable growth. A complementary acquisition in Italy and the opening of a sales and service presence in Singapore have advanced the technological solution portfolio and international expansion.
