MAN Roland to become independent

MAN and Allianz Capital Partners, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Allianz Group, are founding a joint venture with the purpose to purchase MAN Roland Druckmaschinen AG. The intention is to further develop the world’s second largest manufacturer of printing systems and go public with it in several years. The corresponding letter of intent has been signed; MAN AG will retain 35 per cent equity in the joint venture and continue to play a constructive role in the company’s development. Both parties have agreed to maintain strict confidentiality on all details of the agreement until final completion.

With financially strong owners, the world’s second largest manufacturer of printing presses and provider of numerous products and services surrounding the printing process will be able to resolutely continue the value growth program already started. The MAN Roland executive board has a very positive view of this development. Gerd Finkbeiner, CEO of MAN Roland said, ‘This step means a new era for MAN Roland. It will strengthen our position as an independent global solution-provider and increase our options. The company and its employees will gain a long-term perspective as well. Continuity in the management, corporate structure and MAN Roland brand names will ensure that the company retains its credibility and reliability for customers and employees. This will now be complemented by even greater flexibility and more rigorous decision-making processes.’

In its role as financial investor, Allianz Capital Partners will actively support MAN Roland to strengthen its position in the printing industry even further. Thomas Ptter, CEO of Allianz Capital Partners: ‘With its strong position in the market and excellent product know-how, MAN Roland Druckmaschinen has a very good starting point to continue growing and play a decisive role in the imminent consolidation of the industry. And we want to support the company in this important phase of its development. We will use our expertise as a Private Equity Investor to help MAN Roland move forward.’

Besides speeding up the growth of the company, it is also intended to achieve growth through selective acquisitions. The successful start to expanding the business with Services, Spares and Supplies which opens up new fields of business, the regional expansion in growth markets, and augmenting the sheetfed and web press product range are important cornerstones of MAN Roland’s future strategic orientation.

MAN Roland Druckmaschinen AG, whose history goes back to 1845, is the world’s second largest manufacturer of systems for commercial, publications and packaging printing and the global market leader in web offset. With its main locations in Offenbach, Augsburg and Plauen, the company employs almost 8,800 people. The sales and service network is made up of around 120 branch offices and Sales & Service Partners all over the world.