PERI SE’s strategic acquisition of KERN Tunneltechnik
In a world where the construction industry constantly seeks innovative and efficient solutions, the recent acquisition of KERN Tunneltechnik SA by PERI SE marks a significant milestone.
This strategic move, rooted in a vision of enhanced engineering prowess and a more robust market presence, has stirred excitement across the globe. The deal not only reshapes the landscape of tunnel construction but also signals a new era of infrastructural evolution.
A Leap Forward in Tunnel Engineering
KERN Tunneltechnik, a Lugano-based powerhouse, has carved its niche in the realm of secondary lining solutions for tunnel construction. Known for its expertise in producing in-situ concrete inner shells through the mining method, KERN has become a beacon of innovation with approximately 80 employees across three locations.
The company’s influence spans major markets, including the DACH region (Germany, Austria, and Switzerland), the UK, and the USA. Their portfolio is not just confined to the construction of special machines; it extends to comprehensive logistics solutions and engineering services, particularly for complex projects demanding high-level engineering proficiency.
Preserving Identity Amidst Growth
The acquisition terms are a testament to PERI’s commitment to nurturing KERN’s distinct identity. KERN will continue operating as an independent entity within the PERI Group, retaining its current management, brand, and company name.
This move ensures that all KERN employees remain integral to the company’s future, and all existing company locations will be maintained, safeguarding their established operational dynamics.
Synergizing Strengths for Enhanced Efficiency
PERI, a longstanding technical leader in formwork solutions for standard and special tunnel projects, shares KERN’s ambition of streamlining construction processes. This synergy aims at elevating construction safety and efficiency to new heights.
By uniting PERI’s formwork expertise with KERN’s specialized tunnel lining solutions, the partnership promises to revolutionize customer experiences in tunnel construction.
Transitioning Shares and Forging Partnerships
The acquisition narrative also includes the WALO Group’s (Walo International AG, Zurich) divestment of its shares in KERN. Since 2017, WALO has been a strategic investor in KERN, playing a pivotal role in its success story.
Despite the change in ownership, KERN and WALO’s bond remains unbroken, with plans to continue their collaboration in the development of construction and logistics machines.
Voices of Leadership
Reiner Kern, CEO of KERN Tunneltechnik, expressed optimism about the merger, stating: “The merger with PERI opens up new perspectives for both companies and allows us to be stronger on the market in the future – worldwide. This means that both we and PERI can place our service to customers on an even broader basis and fulfil further requirements.”
This sentiment was echoed by PERI CEO Christian Schwörer, who highlighted the acquisition’s role in broadening PERI’s engineering expertise in infrastructure construction. Schwörer emphasized the complementary strengths of the two companies, envisioning a future where they emerge as a unified international solution provider in tunnelling technology.
Implications for the Construction Industry
This acquisition is more than a business transaction; it is a harbinger of transformative change in the construction sector. The merger:
- Enhances Global Infrastructure Development: By combining their strengths, PERI and KERN are poised to introduce innovative solutions that cater to the evolving demands of global infrastructure development.
- Promotes Engineering Excellence: The merger is a step towards consolidating engineering expertise, setting new benchmarks in the construction industry.
- Fosters Customer-Centric Innovation: With a shared goal of rationalizing construction processes, the partnership is committed to developing customer-centric innovations that redefine efficiency and safety in tunnel construction.
Looking Ahead
As the construction industry navigates the challenges of the 21st century, the partnership between PERI and KERN Tunneltechnik represents a beacon of progress and innovation. This strategic merger not only fortifies the position of both companies in the global market but also serves as a catalyst for future advancements in the construction of tunnels and beyond.
The industry watches with anticipation as this partnership unfolds, ready to witness the new heights of engineering excellence it will undoubtedly achieve.
