Wuppertal, 3 July 2012 – GESCO AG has acquired an 82.17 % share in Protomaster Riedel & Co. GmbH, Wilkau-Hasslau.

Protomaster specialises in prototype construction as well as small and medium series of high-quality outer skin and structural parts and complete assemblies, primarily made from aluminium, for the automotive industry. Its customers include companies such as Porsche, Lamborghini, Bentley, Mercedes-AMG, BMW and VW Group as well as automotive suppliers.

Protomaster develops and produces the necessary tools, some of which are complex and very large, at its own production plant. The company’s first-class technical equipment includes milling machines, 3D laser cutting systems and robot technology. The company produces the components in its own moulding presses, including a 2,100-ton large press.

Protomaster employs around 75 people and expects sales of approximately € 9 million in 2012.

GESCO AG acquired the share from company founder Wilfried Riedel as part of an age-related succession agreement. The other company founder and current managing director Mario Mossler retains a 17.83 % share, therefore providing continuity in the company’s management.

GESCO Executive Board member Dr Hans-Gert Mayrose comments on the acquisition: “Protomaster has very successfully positioned itself in the premium segment with its technological expertise and highest of quality standards. Its customer base represents a veritable “who is who” of the automotive industry. Within the GESCO Group, Protomaster is a perfect addition to Werkzeugbau-Laichingen Group, acquired in December 2011 – the competences of both companies complement each other and, working together, they will be able to expand their service portfolios.”