This transaction allows us to build an integrated, resilient European group capable of offering innovative and sustainable solutions to all its customers.

The Group DELABIE is pleased to announce the plan to acquire the entire capital of KWC Professional, formerly Franke Water Systems, to funds managed by Equistone, the majority shareholder, and other minority shareholders.

This acquisition marks a decisive step in DELABIE's development, thus confirming its position as a European leader in healthcare equipment for public establishments. By bringing together two companies with renowned experience and complementary geographic and commercial positions, this transaction creates a first-class industrial group, firmly established throughout Europe.

KWC Professional brings to the DELABIE Group recognized technical expertise, a portfolio of complementary brands (KWC, Aquarotter, and DVS – formerly Dart Valley Systems and Sissons), and a strong presence in particularly demanding market segments. This complementarity was strengthened in 2024 with the acquisition of Newcastle Joinery Ltd. (NJL), a British specialist in furniture and healthcare solutions for prisons. With this transaction, the DELABIE Group will generate nearly 70% of its revenue outside of France.

This acquisition allows DELABIE to expand its range of solutions and significantly strengthen its geographic presence, particularly in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, the Middle East, the Nordic countries, and the United Kingdom.

This transaction is based on a shared strategic vision: to build an integrated, resilient European group capable of offering innovative and sustainable solutions to all its customers. It also opens up new prospects for all employees of both companies, combining their talents to support an ambitious project.

Luc Delabie, co-director of the DELABIE Group, declares: "We are excited about the addition of KWC Professional to our family group. With this acquisition, we are creating a strong pan-European player, perfectly positioned to support our clients in all their projects, offering them increasingly innovative and sustainable solutions."".

Marten van der Mei, director of KWC Professional, adds: “This merger with DELABIE marks a key stage in the company's history. We share values, the same culture of quality, and a forward-looking industrial vision. This partnership opens a promising new chapter, both for our customers, who can continue to count on our high level of service and their usual points of contact, and for our teams.”.

David Zahnd and Roman Emanuel Hegglin, partners of the Equistone team, have stated: “We are proud of the journey we have made since our acquisition in April 2021. of Franke Water Systems, now KWC Group. Following the divestiture of the Medical division in January 2024, the Residential division in May 2024, and the OEM division Nokite EcoSmart Water Heating Systems in December 2024, the KWC Group, which has refocused on its Professional activities, is ideally positioned for sustainable growth. With DELABIE, KWC Professional has found its ideal partner, and we wish the team all the best..

The transaction is subject to customary conditions precedent and could close during the third quarter of 3.