EQT Private Equity has announced the sale of Schülke, a prominent provider of infection prevention and treatment solutions for the healthcare industry, to a consortium led by ATHOS, a Munich-based single family office. Schülke has a rich history of almost 135 years in developing comprehensive infection prevention and treatment solutions for hospitals and other healthcare institutions. The company supplies high-quality disinfectants and antisepsis products to hospitals, pharmacies, direct patient care channels, and the global life science industry.
Headquartered in Norderstedt, Germany, Schülke employs approximately 1,200 people and operates in over 80 countries worldwide. It has established market-leading positions in Central and Eastern Europe, Australia, and Brazil. EQT Private Equity acquired Schülke in July 2020, with a vision to streamline the business, drive growth in core markets, invest in sustainability and innovation, and expand its global presence.
During EQT Private Equity’s ownership, Schülke underwent strategic changes to focus solely on the healthcare and life science market. This included divesting the Personal Care business and discontinuing non-healthcare operations. The company also expanded its footprint in Northern and Southern Europe and established a direct patient care channel through acquisitions. Furthermore, Schülke invested in innovation, including the development of next-generation products.
Under EQT Private Equity’s ownership, Schülke achieved double-digit annual revenue growth and nearly doubled its EBITDA in the core healthcare sector. A key focus of the partnership between EQT Private Equity and Schülke was sustainability. Schülke implemented a customer-centric sustainability strategy, which involved the creation of a green hospital-grade product line, a transition to nearly 100% green electricity, and a commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by up to 40% by 2030 through participation in the Science Based Targets initiative.
Matthias Wittkowski, a partner within EQT Private Equity’s Advisory Team, expressed pride in Schülke’s transformation from a corporate subsidiary to a high-performing, standalone healthcare company. The ATHOS Consortium, led by ATHOS single family office, is seen as an excellent partner for Schülke as it continues its journey.
The transaction is pending customary regulatory approvals and is anticipated to be finalized in the fourth quarter of 2023. EQT Private Equity received advice from Bank of America, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, Deloitte, and Bain & Company throughout the sale process.
Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/eqt-private-equity-to-sell-schulke-a-sustainability-leader-in-infection-prevention-and-treatment-for-the-healthcare-industry-301894366.html