PAI to support ADB’s growth as it strengthens leadership in airfield technology solutions

PAI Partners (“PAI”), a leading European private equity firm, has acquired ADB Airfield Solutions (ADB) from Montagu Private Equity. The transaction, first announced in March 2013, has been approved by regulatory authorities. ADB is a world leader in AGL products, systems, solutions and services, serving more than 2000 airports in over 175 countries around the world.

A world leader in airfield lighting since its establishment in 1947, ADB was acquired by Montagu in 2009. Since then, ADB’s profits have more than doubled and the company has expanded internationally, increasing its presence in emerging markets including China, South America and the Middle East. The company generates approximately €160 million in revenues, 45% of which now come from emerging markets. The company’s growth and internationalization reflect the increasing demand for airport infrastructure across the world and rising standards and requirements in terms of safety, reliability and efficiency.

Laurent Rivoire, a Partner at PAI Partners, said, “We are delighted to invest in ADB. It is the world leader in its sector, with strong growth prospects, and it is another investment in one of our core areas of expertise. We see excellent potential to expand the business footprint, particularly in emerging markets, where demand for airport infrastructure is rapidly increasing, and to benefit from the increased penetration of LED lights, where ADB is market leader. We are also looking forward to working with ADB management and facilitating growth, both organically and through selective acquisitions.”

With 15 offices across the globe, ADB is planning to expand its footprint through global supply chain management with production in the US, Belgium and China and by opening new offices in the Middle East and Asia.

Christian Onselaere, CEO of ADB, said, “Since ADB’s carve-out from Siemens, with Montagu’s support, we have successfully proven ourselves in the last four years as a global, integrated leader with the requisite technological and market expertise. As we partner with PAI, we are confident this development will prepare us for the next phase of growth. We intend to reinforce our five-pillar strategy based on customer focus, innovation, addressing the specific needs of our customers in mature and emerging markets, improving our internal processes and facilitating external growth.”

www.adb-airfieldsolutions.com