Press release
Verhoeven strengthens market position by acquiring industrial automation specialist Van den Akker Electric Engineering
Eindhoven, 19 October 2021 – The Verhoeven Family of Companies, which is included in the portfolio of investment company VADO from Eindhoven, has strengthened its market position in bakery equipment, material handling and logistics through the acquisition of Van den Akker Electric Engineering. Verhoeven and Van den Akker have been working together closely for more than twenty years and have built up an impressive international portfolio. Van den Akker Electric Engineering is specialised in the development of fully integrated industrial automation using robotics and 3D Vision, among others.
VADO is a long-term investor with a clear vision towards innovative, technical (manufacturing) companies. The acquisition of Van den Akker Electric Engineering fits well with the buy-and-build strategy of VADO’s portfolio company Verhoeven. As a specialist in bakery equipment, complex product handling and transport systems, this acquisition enables Verhoeven to further grow in a healthy way. VADO gives its companies the space to initiate takeovers independently.
According to Aart Fortanier, CEO of VADO, the acquisition of Van den Akker Electric Engineering also matches well with VADO’s investment philosophy: “We always look carefully at how a company best fits within our portfolio. This can be as a stand-alone company or, as in this case, in connection with one of our current companies. Van den Akker’s high-quality technology forms an important reinforcement of the services and products of Verhoeven. From now on, clients can be serviced even more completely.”
Hans Stoop, Managing Director for the Verhoeven Family of Companies, considers the acquisition of Van den Akker Electric Engineering to be an important strategic reinforcement for his company. “We see the continued development of robotisation and the importance of data in the specialised production environment. Smart Industry is highly relevant and data is key, There is an increasing need to have real-time insight into production. For example: for quality control; the prevention of waste; and the identification of maintenance needs. This is why line control is now a standard part of our product development. We see an increasing demand in our markets for innovative product solutions that meet these demands, which is why the configurations we offer our customers are essential for them to stay ahead in their markets.”
About Van den Akker Electric Engineering
Van den Akker Electric Engineering is a specialised company in the development of fully integrated industrial automation that utilises, among others, robotics and vision. Van den Akker is active worldwide and works with customers in sectors such as Agro & Food, Chemicals & Pharma, Automotive, Logistics and Energy & Water. The company supports its clients in feasibility studies and concept development, software and hardware engineering, and mechanical construction and delivery.
More information: www.vandenakker.com