Nordic Capital divests global market leader Permobil to Investor

Mar 27, 2013

Nordic Capital Fund V ("Nordic Capital") today announced a definitive agreement to sell Permobil to Investor AB ("Investor"). The transaction values the company at an enterprise value of SEK 5,500 million (EUR 655 million) of which 5,100 million cash and 400 million in a performance based potential future earn-out payment. Under Nordic Capital's ownership, Permobil has been transformed from a Swedish family run business into the global leader in advanced power wheelchairs.  The new owner will enable Permobil to continue to take advantage of its unique position in this fast growing market.

Since Nordic Capital acquired Permobil in 2006, the company has nearly doubled its sales and is now the global leader in the complex rehabilitation power wheelchairs industry.

"I am proud that Nordic Capital has been part of the evolution of Permobil. The strategy of operational improvements by investments in R&D and expansion into new markets, such as the US, led by an excellent management team has propelled Permobil into a global leader," said Fredrik Näslund, Partner, NC Advisory AB, advisor to the Nordic Capital funds.

"Permobil has been transformed over the past seven years from a family firm into an international market leader with the support of Nordic Capital. As the only company solely focused on the advanced high-end segment of the market we have taken a leadership position. Our focus is on the users, innovation and strong customer relationships and support. We are now well poised for further growth. I am very pleased with Investor as our new owner. Their experience and international reach will enable us to further realize the potential of our technology, brand and sales organisation," said Jon Sintorn, CEO of Permobil.

Headquartered in Timrå, Sweden, Permobil operates across four continents and employs approximately 700 people. In 2012, the Group generated revenues of approximately SEK 1,600 million (EUR 190 million). 

The acquisition is subject to approval by the competition authorities.

Media contacts:
Katarina Janerud, Communications Manager,
NC Advisory AB, advisor to the Nordic Capital Funds
E-mail: katarina.janerud@nordiccapital.com
Tel: +46 8 440 50 69

Jon Sintorn, CEO, Permobil
Contact through Katarina Janerud, Nordic Capital, see above.

About Permobil
Since being founded in Sweden in 1967, Permobil has been committed to enhancing the lives of people with physical disabilities. Permobil has since become the global leader in manufacturing of powered wheelchairs, with approximately SEK 1,600 million (EUR 190 million) in revenue 2012. Focused on the complex rehab segment, every wheelchair is built to order and custom-fit to meet the unique medical needs of each individual. Permobil is headquartered in Timrå, Sweden, operates in 30 countries and has approximately 700 employees. For more information please visit www.permobil.com

About Nordic Capital
Since 1989, Nordic Capital Private Equity Funds have invested in large and medium sized companies, primarily in the Nordic region. Nordic Capital creates value in its investments through committed ownership and by targeting strategic development and operational improvements. The funds invest in companies in Northern Europe and in selected investment opportunities internationally. The most recent fund is Nordic Capital Fund VII with EUR 4.3 billion in committed capital, principally provided by international institutional investors, such as pension funds, asset managers and insurance companies.  Nordic Capital Funds are based in Jersey, Channel Islands, and are advised by the NC Advisory companies in Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Germany and the UK. Additional information about Nordic Capital is available on www.nordiccapital.com

Back to news listings >