Kolbus, a German company founded 249 years ago, has entered a new phase in its history with its acquisition by Max Valier Holdings. The Munich-based group, which specializes in medium-sized companies, has made a long-term commitment to Kolbus. The takeover marks a major step forward for Kolbus, which has already been refocusing on packaging solutions since 2018, after selling its bindery business to Müller Martini.
Read : Müller Martini partially acquires Kolbus
The planned restructuring will have far-reaching consequences. Of the 495 employees at Kolbus, 155 positions will be eliminated - almost a third of the total workforce. The closure of the Krostitz site, near Leipzig, and the relocation of AutoBox production from the UK to Rahden, Germany, reflect a strategy of industrial refocusing. For the remaining employees, this consolidation is aimed at stabilizing activities and meeting the expectations of a demanding market.
The acquisition of Kolbus is part of a strategy to optimize industrial capacities. With its increased specialization in high-end packaging, notably for luxury box production machines and rotary die-cutters, Kolbus is responding to a growing demand for eco-responsible solutions. This trend, observed in the packaging market, is a growth driver but requires sustained investment in innovation and automation.
Max Valier Holdings, which already owns four other engineering companies, plans to make Kolbus a strategic asset in its portfolio. With recognized expertise in mechanical engineering and casting, Kolbus benefits from financial and organizational support to accelerate its development.
