AM Group acquires automotive supplier UBC Composites

There is positive news in the debtor-in-possession proceedings for UBC Composites GmbH: after several months of continued business operations and a complex transaction process, the automotive supplier has found an investor.

UBC Composites based in Murr in Baden-Württemberg has been involved in debtor-in-possession proceedings since 20 March 2025. Attorney Mr Philip Konen and business management expert Mr Ludwig Stern from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH have been supporting the restructuring process as general agents and have been responsible for implementing it together with managing director Mr Peter Gerl. The Local Court of Heilbronn appointed attorney Mr Sebastian Krapohl, a partner at law firm GÖRG, as insolvency monitor to oversee the proceedings in the interests of creditors.

All staff to be kept on

AM Group has acquired the business by way of an asset deal and kept on all 166 employees. UBC Composites employs 86 people in Germany, while 80 employees work at its subsidiary in Slovakia. The closing and transfer of operations took effect on 1 September 2025.

AM Group is a Netherlands-based enterprise that focuses on premium automotive engineering, personalisation and advanced composite materials. With subsidiaries in Europe, the UK and the US, it combines design, engineering and manufacturing expertise with a proven ability to develop a global brand presence. Through a fusion of technical mastery, solid engineering knowledge and data-based marketing, AM Group serves OEMs, niche manufacturers and discerning customers worldwide. AM Group’s philosophy is simple: specialise in a niche, master the value chain and protect authenticity at the highest market level. This focus has enabled AM Group to grow rapidly, while ensuring Europe’s role in innovations in high-end automotive engineering and composite materials.

Mr Luis Carrera, director of AM Group, said, “Right from our initial discussions, we recognised our shared focus on technical mastery, trust and authenticity. This alignment made the acquisition a logical step for AM Group. With UBC’s expertise, we will strengthen our niche strategy and continue to develop the most authentic, high-end carbon competencies in Europe.”

Ideal investor found

UBC Composites specialises in processing fibre composite materials and producing components for the automotive and motorsport industries. Founded in 1993, the business has been delivering custom solutions ever since. Numerous companies and global players trust in the premium carbon fibre components delivered by UBC. With more than 30 years of experience, the company is also a partner to the motorsport industry and produces high-precision parts for the aerospace sector.

UBC managing director Mr Peter Gerl has over 21 years of experience in composites and will remain with the business in a management capacity. Mr Gerl said, “The debtor-in-possession proceedings have allowed us to restructure the company under our own steam. We have found the ideal investor in AM Group and can look to the future with confidence. This is also excellent news for our experienced employees.”

New orders received

Operations in Germany and Slovakia have been fully maintained in recent months. All projects have been completed alongside the implementation of operational improvements. Customers have placed new orders, sending an important message to prospective buyers. The relevant parties held numerous discussions with potential investors. These were complicated by the challenging conditions in the automotive industry at this time. The negotiations have now been successfully concluded with AM Group.

Restructuring expert Mr Philip Konen said, “Our goal during the proceedings was to find a long-term solution and secure the right investor. Together, we have succeeded in this. The negotiations were constructive and the outcome is very gratifying. I would like to thank all involved for the excellent cooperation.”

Mr Sebastian Krapohl added, “The joint efforts of all concerned in recent months have paid off. I am delighted that UBC has been able to find a new, stable investor.”

An experienced PLUTA team offering advice on all matters of insolvency law and business has been supporting the company during the proceedings. In addition to the two general agents Mr Philip Konen and Mr Ludwig Stern, the team is comprised of attorneys Ms Heike Metzger, Mr Philip Meyer and Mr Sebastian Weyland, business lawyer Ms Selina Senf, business management expert Mr Luca Reifenberg and Mr Sven Arnstadt.

The buyer received comprehensive legal advice and support from law firm CMS in relation to the transaction. The team at CMS was comprised of Dr Maximilian Seidel-Hacker (lead partner, restructuring and insolvency), Dr Nora Zabel (counsel, corporate/M&A) and Ms Nina Becker, LL.M. (senior associate, corporate/M&A).