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The material handling equipment industry in Europe is vital for smooth production and logistics operations. Companies range from equipment manufacturers to technological innovators, offering tools like conveyors, forklifts, and automated systems that enhance efficiency. With a strong push towards sustainability, many businesses are adopting electric and smart machinery. The rise of e-commerce also amplifies demand, reshaping how products are stored and moved. Interestingly, Europe leads in adopting automation trends, setting benchmarks for safety and performance. Emerging players in robotics highlight a future focused on advancements that promise faster, safer, and more sustainable material handling practices.

This article highlights 13 noteworthy investors in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment sector located across Europe. These investors consist of Venture Capital, Private Equity, and Corporate firms, showcasing variations in investment strategies. Based in cities like Paris, London, and Stockholm, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y range in size from small teams to large organizations with thousands of employees. Founded between 1854 and 2015, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se investors have completed substantial deals in 2024, demonstrating active engagement in supporting businesses that drive innovation in material handling equipment.

Top 13 Material Handling Equipment Investors in Europe

1. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération

• Website:
• Type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 1-10
• Number of deals in 2024: 198
• LinkedIn:

Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital investor based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 2015. As a public entity and financial institution, Bpifrance supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through a range of services, including direct funding, export credit insurance, and private equity investments. The firm aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in several transactions relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment sector, such as its investment in Balyo, which raised over $10 million in Series A funding in 2015 and focuses on robotic solutions for material handling. Additionally, Bpifrance participated in funding rounds for K-Ryole, a company that develops innovative solutions for logistics and material handling, raising 10.5 million euros in 2022. These investments highlight Bpifrance's commitment to supporting companies that enhance efficiency in material handling and logistics.

2. Indutrade Life Science

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1978
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 14
• LinkedIn:

Indutrade Life Science is a corporate investor based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1978. The company is part of an industrial group that specializes in developing and acquiring companies with high technical expertise across various sectors, including technology and industrial products. Indutrade emphasizes long-term relationships with its customers and operates through a decentralized structure, allowing its subsidiaries to maintain independence while benefiting from Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ group's resources. Notable transactions include Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of PMH International, which specializes in material handling solutions, and Aluflex System AB, which may provide products relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling industry. These acquisitions reflect Indutrade's strategy to enhance its portfolio with companies that can contribute to innovative industrial solutions, potentially including material handling equipment.

3. Bunzl UK and Ireland

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1854
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 5
• LinkedIn:

Bunzl UK and Ireland is a corporate investor based in London, England, founded in 1854. As a distribution and outsourcing company, Bunzl provides essential items necessary for businesses to operate across various industries. They focus on tailored solutions and leverage an extensive distribution network to meet customer needs effectively. Notably, Bunzl has been involved in several acquisitions that highlight Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in sectors related to material handling equipment. For instance, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir acquisition of Aggora Group, which specializes in commercial catering equipment, demonstrates Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir interest in equipment that may be relevant to material handling. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir acquisition of Destiny Packaging, which operates in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ packaging sector, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r illustrates Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir involvement in industries that intersect with material handling. Overall, Bunzl's diverse portfolio and strategic acquisitions position Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m as a significant player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ distribution of essential business equipment.

4. Crédit Mutuel Equity

• Website: creditmutuel-equity.eu
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 2
• LinkedIn:

Crédit Mutuel Equity is a private equity investment firm based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France, founded in 1988. The firm focuses on providing capital and strategic support to businesses across various sectors, integrating economic and ESG considerations into Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir investment strategies. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have been involved in several transactions relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment industry, including a significant investment in Manuloc, which raised over $101 million in 2017, indicating Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir commitment to this sector. They also invested in Accès Industrie, a company that specializes in equipment leasing, and Occarent, which focuses on leasing equipment to professional clients. These transactions highlight Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir active role in supporting companies that operate within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment space, showcasing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir capability to enhance operations and navigate market challenges for Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir clientele.

5. EQT Group

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 30
• LinkedIn:

EQT Group is a prominent private equity investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. The firm specializes in a diverse range of investment strategies, including private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. EQT serves institutional investors by managing a varied portfolio across multiple sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment context, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Dorner Holding Corp, a company focused on industrial automation, and Piab Group Holding, which specializes in industrial technology. These transactions highlight EQT's commitment to supporting growth and innovation in sectors that are integral to material handling and logistics. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir acquisition of Lazer Logistics and Direct ChassisLink furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r emphasizes Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir strategic focus on logistics and fleet management, which are essential components of material handling operations.

6. Triton Partners

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Luxembourg
• Founded year: 1997
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn:

Triton Partners is a private equity investment firm based in Luxembourg, founded in 1997. The firm specializes in private equity and credit investments in European mid-market businesses, focusing on sectors such as Business Services, Industrial Tech, and Healthcare. Triton provides operational expertise and capital to help companies unlock Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir full potential, partnering with management teams to address challenges and drive growth. Notably, Triton has made significant investments in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment sector, including Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of MacGregor, a cargo handling specialist, for EUR 480 million, and Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Dematic, a leader in automated material handling solutions. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir investments in companies like Alimak Group and Battenfeld-cincinnati furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r highlight Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling and industrial technology space, reinforcing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir role as a key player in this industry.

7. ASSA ABLOY Group

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 10001+
• Number of deals in 2024: 21
• LinkedIn:

ASSA ABLOY Group is a leading security solutions provider based in Stockholm, Sweden, specializing in locks, doors, gates, and entrance automation. Founded in 1994, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ company has established itself as a leader in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ security industry through innovation and a diverse product portfolio. In addition to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir core focus on security, ASSA ABLOY has made significant strides into Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment sector. In 2024, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y acquired Integrated Warehouse Solutions, enhancing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir offerings in warehouse management. FurÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨rmore, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y also acquired a U.S. manufacturer of loading dock equipment, which is crucial for efficient material handling operations. These strategic acquisitions reflect ASSA ABLOY's commitment to expanding Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir influence in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment market, alongside Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir traditional security solutions.

8. IK Partners

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 14
• LinkedIn:

IK Partners is a private equity firm based in London, England, specializing in mid-market investments across Europe. Founded in 1989, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ firm focuses on providing capital and strategic support to businesses in various sectors, including Business Services, Healthcare, Consumer, and Industrials. Notably, IK Partners has been involved in significant transactions within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ industrial sector, such as Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ acquisition of Konecranes in 1994, a leading provider of lifting equipment and services, which directly relates to material handling. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir acquisition of Renta Group Oy in 2021 furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r demonstrates Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir active role in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ industrial space. By partnering with management teams, IK Partners aims to enhance growth and create long-term value for Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir portfolio companies, including those in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment industry.

9. 3i Group plc

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1945
• Headcount: 201-500
• Number of deals in 2024: 3
• LinkedIn:

3i Group plc is a London-based private equity and infrastructure investment firm founded in 1945. The firm specializes in providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, helping Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m achieve sustainable growth. With a strong international presence, 3i Group has a diverse portfolio that includes significant investments in various sectors. Notably, 3i Group acquired Hyva Group in 2004, a company known for its hydraulic systems and equipment used in material handling, indicating Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir interest in this industry. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir investment in Loxam Holding, a France-based rental equipment services company, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r demonstrates Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement with Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ equipment sector, which may encompass material handling equipment. Through Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨se strategic investments, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders while supporting Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ growth of companies within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir portfolio.

10. European Investment Bank (EIB)

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Luxembourg
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 99
• LinkedIn:

The European Investment Bank (EIB) is a public entity based in Luxembourg, established in 1958, that provides financial services including loans, equity investments, guarantees, and advisory services to support sustainable projects across various sectors. In 2024, EIB was involved in 99 investments, showcasing its active role in financing initiatives that promote growth and job creation. Among its notable transactions in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment context, EIB led funding rounds for OnRobot, a company specializing in collaborative robot grippers, and Nomagic, which focuses on warehouse automation through pick-and-place robots. Additionally, EIB provided a â‚�50M loan to Collé Rental & Sales for Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ electrification of its rental machinery, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r emphasizing its commitment to supporting advancements in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment industry. These transactions highlight EIB's strategic investments in technologies that enhance efficiency and sustainability in material handling operations.

11. Ardian

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 21
• LinkedIn:

Ardian is a prominent investment management firm founded in 1996, based in Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France. Specializing in private equity, real assets, and credit solutions, Ardian provides tailored investment strategies to institutional investors, family offices, and pension funds. With a global presence and a commitment to sustainable finance, Ardian aims to create lasting value for its clients. Notably, Ardian has made significant strides in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment sector, exemplified by Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir recent acquisition of Alstef Group, a provider of automated and robotic solutions for Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ airport and logistics sectors, announced in June 2024. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir acquisition of LIFTKET Group in May 2023, which focuses on lifting equipment, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir engagement in this industry. These transactions demonstrate Ardian's strategic interest in enhancing Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir portfolio within Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment space.

12. Ldc

• Website:
• Type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 51-200
• Number of deals in 2024: 15
• LinkedIn:

Lloyds Development Capital (Holdings) Limited, commonly known as LDC, is a private equity firm based in London, England, that specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. Founded in 1981, LDC is part of Lloyds Banking Group and focuses on fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success. In recent years, LDC has made several notable investments, including a significant minority investment in IWS Group to support Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir buy and build strategy, and a £37.5 million investment in Bybox, a logistics and supply chain technology solutions provider. This investment aims to accelerate Bybox's organic growth and expand its service offerings, which are relevant to Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment sector. Additionally, LDC's investment in ChargePoint Technology, a manufacturer of containment and sterile transfer solutions, highlights Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir interest in companies that may intersect with material handling needs in specialized contexts. Overall, LDC's diverse investment portfolio and strategic focus on growth make Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m a potential player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment industry.

13. Lagercrantz Group AB

• Website:
• Type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• Number of deals in 2024: 6
• LinkedIn:

Lagercrantz Group AB is a technology group based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2001. The company operates approximately 80 subsidiaries that provide specialized technical solutions across various sectors, emphasizing acquisitions and organic growth. In recent years, Lagercrantz has made several strategic acquisitions that highlight its involvement in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment industry. Notably, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y acquired Nikodan Conveyor Systems A/S, a company specializing in high-quality belt conveyors and product handling solutions, which is directly relevant to material handling. Additionally, Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y have acquired MH Modules and Vihab, furÅ·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨r expanding Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ir portfolio in related technology sectors. Their business model caters primarily to business customers seeking tailored technology solutions, positioning Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨m as a significant player in Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ niche markets Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨y serve.

Material Handling Equipment Insights: Key Investors in Europe

Investor	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Deals 2024
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	1-10	2015	198
	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	1001-5000	1978	14
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	1001-5000	1854	5
Crédit Mutuel Equity	Paris, Île-De-France, France	51-200	1988	2
	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	1001-5000	1994	30
	Luxembourg	201-500	1997	6
	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	10001+	1994	21
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	201-500	1989	14
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	201-500	1945	3
	Luxembourg	1001-5000	1958	99
	Paris, ÃŽle-De-France, France	1001-5000	1996	21
	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	1981	15
	Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden	1001-5000	2001	6

Want to find more investors focusing on Å·²©ÌåÓýƽ̨ material handling equipment industry?

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• ...and much more!