Aurelius Equity Opportunities Se
Aurelius Equity Opportunities SE & Co. KGaA is a distinguished pan-European investment group renowned for its strategic focus on mid-market corporate carve-outs and platform build-ups across a diverse range of industries. Established in 2005 by Dirk Markus and Gert Purkert, the company has flourished under their visionary leadership, evolving from a privately held investment vehicle into a powerhouse with a significant presence in the European market.
With a robust foundation laid in 2006 through the creation of a listed subsidiary, Aurelius has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to growth and innovation. The transformation into an SE & Co. KGaA in 2015 marked a pivotal moment in the company's history, further solidifying its position in the industry.
Aurelius's investment prowess is evident in its impressive portfolio, which includes a variety of sectors such as industrial enterprises, chemicals, business services, consumer goods, food & beverage, and telecoms, media & technology (TMT). The company's success is attributed to its large team of in-house experts who provide active support to its portfolio companies, guiding them through long-term developments.
The group's divisions reflect its multifaceted approach to investment:
- Aurelius Equity Opportunities: The flagship division, focusing on value asset acquisition and development.
- Aurelius Growth Investments: Specializes in providing succession solutions for small and medium enterprises in Europe.
- Aurelius Real Estate Opportunities: Concentrates on investments in various property sectors.
- Aurelius Finance Company: An alternative lender offering capital solutions to European companies.
- Aurelius Refugee Initiative e.V.: A non-profit charity dedicated to supporting individuals with migration backgrounds.
Aurelius's strategy and operations have drawn comparisons to the German Berkshire Hathaway, underscoring its reputation for buying and nurturing value assets. The company's acquisition history is a testament to its strategic acumen, with notable transactions including the purchase of Schleicher Electronic, the European operations of Armstrong's ceiling tile and grids business, BT Fleet Solutions (now Rivus Fleet Solutions), and VAG, a manufacturer of water and waste water valves.
In 2021, Aurelius launched a €500 million investment fund specializing in corporate spin-offs and companies in transition, attracting investors such as US and European university endowments, pension funds, insurance companies, and family offices. This initiative exemplifies Aurelius's forward-thinking approach and its commitment to fostering sustainable growth and value creation.