Asset deal concluded – restructured hofer AG moves forward in a strengthened position and remains a family business

Following the approval of the creditors’ committee, the asset deal for hofer AG was successfully concluded and the contracts for the company were signed on 30 July 2025. Having completed this step, the restructured company seamlessly commenced its operations on 1 August. Through the transfer of the relevant employees and infrastructure, the asset deal ensures all projects can continue. The majority of staff as well as all key teams are still involved in the ongoing projects. There were no delays for customers at any stage in the proceedings and existing contracts remain valid.

The M&A transaction covers key fields of technology, with a particular focus on battery systems, electric powertrain systems, electronics and software. This is supplemented by internationally recognised test expertise, which continues to be fully available to customers and partners and is in great demand. A structured sales process directed at more than 240 investors was conducted in recent weeks as part of the restructuring proceedings. The now completed sale ensures the continuity of the business.

“With the successful conclusion of the asset deal, we have paved the way for a stable and viable setup after these challenging months – with great support from our long-standing customers. Our focus continues to be firmly on e‑mobility and future-oriented powertrain technology, which is more in demand than ever and offers great potential for a wide range of markets. With our new, streamlined structure, we are creating a technology-focused organisation with enhanced long-term competitiveness,” said CEO Mr Johann Paul Hofer.

The group supplies well-known customers in Europe, the US and Asia, and has a particular focus on electrified powertrain systems for fully electric and hybrid vehicles. The new organisation will generate additional momentum for future projects around the world.

Automotive supplier hofer AG has been involved in self-administration proceedings since 30 April 2025. Self-administration proceedings are in-court restructuring proceedings to rescue and rehabilitate financially distressed companies. The company has been assisted during the proceedings by a PLUTA team comprising attorneys Dr Maximilian Pluta, Mr Ilkin Bananyarli, Mr Daniel Barth, Mr Sven Heuser and Mr Rasmus Linden as well as business management expert Mr Ludwig Stern. Restructuring experts Mr Ilkin Bananyarli and Mr Daniel Barth from PLUTA Rechtsanwalts GmbH have been supporting and implementing the restructuring process in their capacity as general agents. The local court appointed attorney Ms Nora Sickeler from law firm Grub Brugger as custodian to oversee the proceedings in the interests of creditors.

Management worked with the PLUTA team to develop a restructuring plan within a matter of weeks. The constructive cooperation of all involved was especially noteworthy. General agent Mr Daniel Barth emphasised, “The group’s operations remained stable while we worked on a long-term solution.” Mr Ilkin Bananyarli added, “The discussions were very constructive. We are pleased that the acquisition has now been completed. This allows all involved to plan with certainty, so we have achieved the ideal solution.”

Attorney Mr Markus Münzenmaier from law firm ljh Lindlbauer provided legal advice during the sales process. The M&A process was led by Mr Peter Wieland and Mr Alexander von Abercron from SGP Schneider Geiwitz Corporate Finance.