On behalf of WISAP’s then shareholder, Blue Cap AG, MRL Advisors acted as exclusive M&A advisor in the search for a new owner and initiated, structured and accompanied the entire transaction through to closing.
WISAP is a successful medium-sized niche supplier of medical instruments and devices for minimally invasive surgery in the field of laparoscopic gynecology with more than 60 years of tradition, founded by the entrepreneur Prof. Dr. Kurt Semm.
Aohua Endoscopy Co., Ltd. is a medium-sized endoscopy company based in Shanghai, which successfully debuted on the Shanghai Stock Exchange (in the STAR Market segment) in 2021.
Mr. Stephan Hilgers, who, as managing director, oversaw the transaction alongside MRL Advisors and subsequently helped shape the integration of WISAP with Aohua, views the collaboration with the new shareholder as extremely positive. The new shareholder, Aohua, has opened up new sales channels for WISAP in China and other Asian countries, leading to a surge in growth for WISAP. In addition, WISAP now distributes medical devices manufactured in China throughout Europe. As a result, WISAP’s workforce at the Brunnthal location has more than doubled.
From MRL Advisors’ perspective, the following factors are particularly relevant for the success of the WISAP transaction:
- Correct identification of the strategic market position of the target (WISAP) and determination incl. Documentation of potentially synergistic (complementary) product groups
- Definition of priority country markets based on the target’s current and future business potential
- Identification of potential partners (strategic investors) in defined target countries with suitable company size, product focus and country focus
- Negotiation support with knowledge of the local “negotiation DNA” (here: China and Germany) in order to build functioning bridges.
Point 3) in particular – the identification of a suitable buyer – requires in-depth knowledge of the strategies and orientation of the companies in Asia. With more than 28 years of experience working intensively in the Chinese market, MRL Advisors can add substantial value.
If you are considering selling shares in the company or bringing in new shareholders, we would be happy to explain our approach to you with no obligation.
