NETHERLANDS – Atlas Copco Group is in the process of acquiring Perslucht Wilda B.V. (“Perslucht Wilda”), a compressor distributor based in Woudenberg, Netherlands.
Founded in 1979, Perslucht Wilda specializes in portable air compressors, generators, light towers, small electric compressors, and related services.
Andrew Walker, President of the Power Technique Business Area at Atlas Copco, says the acquisition will allow them to broaden their direct network and enhance after-sales services in the Netherlands.
The financial details of the deal have not been disclosed.
The transaction is expected to be finalized by the fourth quarter of 2024, and once complete, Perslucht Wilda will be integrated into the service division within the Power Technique Business Area.
Atlas Copco, which is also well-known for providing vacuum packaging solutions for the meat industry, uses vacuum pumps to remove oxygen from packaged meat to inhibit the growth of micro-organisms.
The company has recently reported strong results for the first quarter of the year, surpassing expectations with a high order intake and increased profits.
The company is predicting stable demand in the near term, despite fluctuations in specific market segments.
Atlas Copco’s financial report shows an 8 percent rise in revenues, totaling SEK 42,875 million (US$3.92 million), with 7 percent organic growth.
Operating profit has also risen by 7 percent, reaching SEK 9,345 million (US$854,507.08).
While the compressor business saw higher margins driven by increased organic revenue, currency effects and minor dilution from acquisitions posed challenges.
In the vacuum technique segment, revenues declined organically by 3 percent, reaching SEK 9,719 million (US$888,705.65), with an operating profit of SEK 2,119 million (US$193,761.42).
The decline was attributed to lower volumes and an unfavorable sales mix, although currency fluctuations had a positive impact.
Additionally, Atlas Copco revealed the sale of series A shares during the quarter, in line with the company’s long-term incentive programs, as approved by the Annual General Meeting.
Looking ahead, Atlas Copco remains confident in its future, maintaining a strong return on capital employed at 30 percent and a return on equity of 31 percent.
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