DPE sells stake in First Sensor AG to TE Connectivity

May 28, 2019

  • Successful expansion of the business
  • Technology leadership consolidated
  • World-leading sensor equipment supplier under new ownership

Munich/Berlin, May 28, 2019. Funds advised by DPE are selling their 40 percent stake in stock market-listed First Sensor AG to the Swiss sensor and electronics group TE Connectivity (TE), Schaffhausen.  TE, itself a spin-off from the US group Tyco International, has announced its intention to make a public takeover offer for all of the outstanding shares in First Sensor. The purchase price stands at EUR 28.25 per share or EUR 292 million.  “We are delighted to have found in TE Connectivity a highly respected and experienced partner to oversee the continuing development of First Sensor, and one with whom First Sensor can write the next chapters in its success story,” emphasized DPE partner Guido Prehn.

High-end sensor solutions for the industrial, mobility and medical markets

First Sensor is one of the world’s leading suppliers of sensor equipment. In 2018 with a global workforce of 900 highly qualified employees the company generated sales of EUR 155.1 million and EBITDA of EUR 21.3 million. The company provides high-end sensor solutions and systems for the industrial, mobility and medical markets. The portfolio includes both customer-specific solutions and standard products. First Sensor commands in-depth expertise in pressure sensors, radiation sensors, fill level sensors, throughput sensors, inertial sensors, power semiconductors, optical sensors and cameras as well as sensors for driver assistance systems.

Exceptionally well placed in future markets

At the end of 2011, DPE financed the acquisition of the Sensortechnics Group by First Sensor in what was a transformational step that strategically repositioned the business. DPE partner Guido Prehn continued: “Since then, under its new management board, the company has successfully expanded its sales activities to include larger customers. The product portfolio has been optimized and production processes improved. Thanks to greater organizational efficiency, the company has been able to invest in innovation and at the same time put the business on a profitable growth course.” Operating profits doubled between 2013 and 2018. Today, First Sensor enjoys a strong international market position and a reputation as technology leader.