Hauser joins Epta Group

MILAN, Italy; LINZ, Austria, 17 July 2025: Epta said it has signed a binding agreement with the shareholders of Hauser, an established Austrian company with a strong presence across the DACH region and central-eastern European markets, under which Hauser will join Epta Group.

Making the announcement through a Press Release, Epta said the strategic business combination aims to enhance Epta Group’s presence and competitiveness in the retail sector and marks a significant step forward in the long-term vision shared by both companies – two family-owned businesses united by common values and a commitment to sustainable growth.

Epta said Hauser joining Epta Group will result in one of the most comprehensive and leading players in the sector, with approximately €2 billion in consolidated revenues and around 10,000 employees, combining innovation, sustainability and exceptional service capabilities. The joint entity, Epta said, will significantly reinforce the individual geographic presence of the two companies, with particular focus on Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Romania, Bulgaria, Hungary, further south-eastern European countries, UK and France. The regional presence will benefit also from Hauser’s two plants in Austria and Czech Republic, Epta said.

According to Epta, Hauser’s renowned market position will complement its own unique expertise in commercial refrigeration, as the Group will now offer its clients one of the broadest ranges of commercial refrigeration solutions and services, driven by sustainable and digital innovation. Supported by a more extensive and complementary geographical footprint, Epta said, the two companies will join forces in design, production, installation and maintenance of commercial refrigeration systems. With a widespread and highly skilled professional network throughout Europe, Epta said it plans on providing a higher quality of service for customers.

Epta said the coming together of the two companies is another milestone for it in its journey to consolidate its status as a global player in the sector, thanks to an increase in its offer and a strengthened international footprint. For Hauser, this operation creates the ideal conditions for long-term profitable growth in a highly evolving market, Epta said.

Marco Nocivelli, CEO, Epta, said: “The union of the Epta and Hauser families marks the beginning of a new chapter in European industrial excellence, built on shared values, vision, and a deep commitment to innovation and sustainability. Our combined expertise in the commercial refrigeration business is unique. After our recent partnership with the Viessmann family in 2023, the agreement with Hauser further strengthens our position as a global player in the sector. In a scenario shaped by ecological and digital transitions, creating meaningful partnerships and networks is essential to generate a sustainable future. This agreement perfectly represents our strategy and our desire to continue investing in the future of the Group according to our purpose – Preserving our planet with conscious innovation. Together.”

Thomas Loibl, CEO, Hauser, said: “With Epta as a strong partner, we are continuing our tradition as a family business while strengthening our international presence. This step ensures the company’s sustainable development, provides stability in an economically volatile environment, and opens up new opportunities for Hauser.”

Following completion of the transaction, which will be carried out through a contribution in Epta of Hauser’s shares, the current shareholders of Epta will hold approximately 86% of the combined entity, while the foundation founded by Mr. Hauser will hold approximately 14%, Epta said.

Upon closing, Hauser will be fully consolidated into Epta’s financial statements, Epta said. As part of the agreement, Hauser will be represented within Epta’s Board of Directors, ensuring continuity and alignment of strategic vision, Epta added.

According to Epta, the closing of the deal is subject to customary conditions precedent, including approval by the European antitrust authorities, expected by the end of 2025.

Epta said it received assistance in the transaction from Bain & Company for business and operational due diligence, from PwC for financial and tax matters and from Clifford Chance as legal advisors. Hauser, Epta said, received advice from PwC for financial, tax and legal matters.