GMH Gruppe acquires Kind and Co., Edelstahlwerk, GmbH and Co. KG

GMH Gruppe has acquired 100% of the shares in Kind & Co., Edelstahlwerk, GmbH & Co. KG (Kind&Co). The company specialises in the production and refinement of high-alloy steels and offers a wide range of tool steels and special alloys. Kind&Co, based in Wiehl, generated sales of around 125 million euros in 2023. Its integration will strengthen GMH Gruppe's position in the tool steel industry, particularly in the segment of hot-work tool steels, in which Kind&Co holds an outstanding international position. The purchase agreement was signed on 16 August 2024 and the transaction was completed on 30 September 2024.

Strategic growth and integration

The integration of Kind&Co will enable GMH Gruppe to tap into new market segments, expand its product range and significantly increase its service level for customers. Kind&Co's hot-work tool steels are used in particular in die casting, extrusion and drop forging, which will diversify GMH Gruppe's sales market portfolio.

“We are looking forward to the integration of Kind&Co into GMH Gruppe,” Dr Alexander Becker, CEO of GMH Gruppe, said. "This partnership fits our strategic goals and increases the added value for our customers. Kind&Co's products optimally complement our existing range and expand our ability to serve the market in a targeted manner".

Strengthening GMH’s position in the high-end segment of the tool steel industry

Kind&Co's expertise in research and development will also support GMH Gruppe's ongoing innovation efforts.

"Since its foundation in 1888, Kind&Co has been family-owned, with the fourth generation in control since 2000. I am therefore particularly pleased that we have found a new owner in GMH Gruppe, which is also 100% privately owned”, explains Susanne Wildner, Managing Director and, until the acquisition by GMH, shareholder of Kind&Co. “GMH Gruppe and Kind&Co share the same values and owner-managed, entrepreneurial thinking and behaviour. I therefore know that both our family business and our employees are in good hands with a company that will lead Kind&Co into a positive future".

Advantages for customers and employees

For Kind&Co employees, this change of ownership offers the opportunity to join a larger group with expanded resources and global reach. Customers will continue to receive high-quality products that are now supported by the broader competences of GMH Gruppe.