Sphinx Werkzeuge AG has been acquired by management and Helvetica Capital AG

September 2016 — The owners of Sphinx Werkzeuge AG have sold a majority stake in the company to Helvetica Capital AG and members of the management team. Financial details have not been disclosed.

Sphinx Werkzeuge is a leading precision tools developer and manufacturer for high precision mechanical and medical applications. The company's core business is the production of micro to small drills. In the medical technology industry, its products are mainly used in orthopedic surgery.

Helvetica Capital is a long-term entrepreneurial investor with focus on Swiss SMEs. Jointly with private investors, the firm invests in succession cases of hidden champions to sustainably develop them.

In the course of a succession plan, Sphinx Werkzeuge's management team and other investors decided to sell a majority shareholding to Helvetica Capital AG. With this transaction, the company has found the right partner for its long-term development. Sphinx Werkzeuge will continue under its existing name, management and staff.

Long-term shareholder and former member of Sphinx Werkzeuge's management team Bruno Fellmann, who will leave the company, commented: "Speaking on behalf of all shareholders, I am glad that we found the ideal solution for the company. With Helvetica Capital as the new owner, we are confident that Sphinx Werkzeuge will continue on its successful path as a stand-alone company."

Our role in the transaction

Oaklins' team in Switzerland advised the shareholders on the preparation of the succession process and due diligence, the approach and negotiations with potential buyers, and assisted them until closing.