Brookfield to Acquire Fosber

Core Insights - Brookfield has agreed to acquire Fosber, a leader in advanced machinery for the corrugated packaging industry, valuing the transaction at approximately $900 million [1][3]. Company Overview - Fosber, founded in 1978 and headquartered in Lucca, Italy, specializes in high-speed corrugating machinery and provides essential aftersales parts, maintenance, and digital monitoring solutions to box manufacturers globally [2]. - The company operates in Italy, the U.S., and China, and is recognized for its innovative product development and strong customer service [2]. Transaction Details - The acquisition is a carve-out from Guangdong Dongfang Precision and is expected to close in 2026, pending regulatory approvals [1][3]. - Brookfield's investment will be funded with approximately $480 million of equity, with Brookfield Business Partners expected to invest around $170 million [3]. Strategic Rationale - The acquisition aligns with Brookfield's strategy of investing in industrial leaders based in Europe, leveraging Fosber's operations in the U.S. and Asia to enhance its global platform [3]. - Brookfield aims to apply its operational expertise to accelerate Fosber's digital transformation and expand its after-sales and service offerings [3]. Brookfield's Investment Focus - Brookfield's private equity business has extensive experience in industrials and manufacturing, having previously invested in companies like Chemelex, Clarios, and GrafTech [4]. - The firm focuses on unlocking potential in European market leaders to reposition them as global champions [4].