GEBHARDT Intralogistics Group acquires AKDV GmbH and strengthens expertise in smart sorting and automation
Sinsheim, October 15 – The GEBHARDT Intralogistics Group has acquired AKDV GmbH. This strategic move strengthens GEBHARDT's focus on smart sorting and enhances its capabilities in automation, control, and software development for the courier, express, and parcel (CEP) services, as well as the e-commerce sectors.
AKDV GmbH specialises in developing control and automation software, visualisation systems, and data connections for complex conveyor and sorting systems. This expertise complements GEBHARDT's existing portfolio and lays a solid foundation for the further development of innovative, software-driven intralogistics solutions. GEBHARDT is enhancing its engineering capabilities through the acquisition of AKDV, which includes a team of specialized automation engineers. This collaboration will lead to improved quality, more efficient project implementation, and faster realization of complex customer projects. Customers will enjoy comprehensive solutions from a single source, covering everything from mechanics to control systems and software. Additionally, GEBHARDT is expanding its regional presence in northern Germany and across Europe to be closer to customer projects.
"By acquiring AKDV, we are gaining a strong team of control and automation specialists who will greatly enhance our engineering expertise. This improvement will allow us to accelerate the development and implementation of smart sorting solutions, enabling us to provide even more comprehensive support to our customers. This acquisition directly contributes to our Strategy 2030, where software and digitalization are key enablers for further growth," says Marco Gebhardt, CEO of the GEBHARDT Intralogistics Group.
Manfred Krup and Arnd Kraemer, managing directors of AKDV Automatisierungstechnik GmbH, state: “At AKDV, we foster a family-like atmosphere—except with evenings off. This approach has been instrumental in the success of our entire team over the years. It has allowed us to automate conveyor technology for sorters at Germany's largest parcel centers, earning us a reputation as a reliable, powerful, and innovative partner for our customers. With our recent takeover by GEBHARDT, we can now leverage our expertise and experience from over 25 years in PLC control and MFR programming as part of a strong group. We are confident that this transition will guide us in the right direction for the future, benefiting both our customers and employees, and enabling us to continue our growth and expand our market position.”
With the acquisition of AKDV, GEBHARDT is strengthening its position as a leading provider of innovative intralogistics solutions and underscoring its strategic focus on software, digitalization, and smart automation. The GEBHARDT Intralogistics Group was once again supported by LSJ Advisory as M&A advisor in this transaction.