Halder acquires Conen Group

Halder has completed an MBO of Conen Group (Morbach/Germany). The investment provides a succession solution for the founder’s family which had established the company in 1965.

Conen specializes in outfitting educational institutions like schools and nursery schools in Western Europe, the Middle East and the US. Technical products for interactive learning form an important segment of its business, e. g. height-adjustable display mounts which are increasingly used for teaching. In addition, the company offers a broad range of furniture products for school and pre-school facilities in its German core market and neighbouring countries, sold to more than 1,000 longterm clients.

With inhouse product development and manufacturing, Conen has a deep value chain. In addition, it provides high product availability and customization. Internal logistics cover fast delivery and on-site installation in Germany and cross-border. In 2018, the company achieved € 37 million in turnover and had a staff of 225.

Conen’s international business perspective is driven by an increasing digitalization of global education, resulting in double-digit growth rates for interactive displays. The company plans for closer co-operation with display manufacturers in the US und the Middle East. As government spending for Germany’s pre-school and school sectors is set to increase significantly over the next years, the home market also provides a favorable outlook.

Halder has been active in Germany since 1991 and has provided 39 SMEs with capital for ownership succession and growth. Backed by Halder, portfolio companies grow by internationalization, focusing their strategy and business model, comprehensive capital expenditure and add-on investments. Conen is the first investment of Halder VI, a fund closed in January 2019.