We have advised Josef Lentner GmbH (Lentner), a German company specialising in the manufacturing of fire engines, tankers, and heavy fire rescue vehicles as well as fire equipment carriers worldwide, on its growth path partnership with Hannover Finanz Opportunities (HFO). Since COVID-19, Lentner dealt with a variety of external macroeconomic challenges, leading to poor financial power ahead of full-order books. HFO, as a new partner alongside the existing owner, will enable further growth opportunities and strengthen Lentner’s financial position.
Lentner, based in Hohenlinden near Munich, Germany, was founded in 1985. The company specialises in the manufacturing of both standard and custom firefighting vehicles, fire engines as well as pumps, pressure proportioning systems, and compressed air foam systems. These products are distributed across Germany and are increasingly gaining traction internationally. Lentner's strong market position is bolstered by its high product quality, expertise in customisation, and deep penetration into the professional fire brigade sector. The company is one of the leading manufacturers within the attractive market of fire engines.
Founded in 1979, Hannover Finanz has over 45 years of experience as an equity partner for SMEs. With its HFO division, and offices in Hanover, Frankfurt, and Vienna, the private equity firm was one of the first private equity capital providers in the DACH region. The firm's primary investment focus is on growth financing and succession planning for stable, medium-sized companies with annual revenues of more than €20m. Uniquely, Hannover Finanz is among the few investment firms in Germany that acquires both majority and minority shareholdings. Currently, the portfolio includes 34 companies.
