ZF Friedrichshafen AG has acquired the large gearbox business of Bosch Rexroth AG, significantly expanding its industrial technology offerings. This acquisition includes over 1,200 employees and strengthens ZF’s presence in key markets like wind turbine gearboxes and industrial gears for heavy machinery.
This strategic move allows ZF to enter the industrial gear market, providing solutions for demanding applications such as oil rigs, mine vehicles, tunnel drilling machines, and cableways. Furthermore, the acquisition bolsters ZF’s existing wind turbine gearbox business, solidifying its position in the renewable energy sector.
ZF CEO Dr. Stefan Sommer emphasized the importance of this acquisition in the company’s long-term strategy, stating that strengthening the non-automotive segment is a key objective. The Bosch Rexroth gearbox business complements ZF’s Industrial Technology portfolio and opens doors to new customer relationships. In 2014, the acquired Bosch Rexroth business generated approximately EUR 300 million in sales. This acquisition aligns with ZF’s goal of increasing the contribution of its Industrial Technology division, which currently accounts for roughly 12% of Group sales.
As part of the acquisition, ZF gains two key production locations: Witten, Germany with nearly 900 employees and Beijing, China with over 300 employees. Additionally, a service location in Lake Zurich, USA, with approximately 15 employees, is included. Witten serves as the headquarters for the large gearbox technologies, including administration, development, and sales. The Beijing location focuses solely on the production of Bosch Gearbox components for wind turbines. All three locations provide comprehensive customer support services.
Bosch Rexroth Chairman Karl Tragl expressed confidence that the large gearbox business will thrive under ZF’s leadership, leveraging its transmission expertise for future growth. He highlighted Bosch Rexroth’s recent advancements in the sector, particularly the development of new wind turbine gearboxes designed for low wind speed environments. Bosch Rexroth will now concentrate on its core industrial and mobile application businesses.
ZF Board of Management member Wilhelm Rehm, responsible for corporate materials management and industrial technology, welcomed the addition of the experienced Bosch gearbox team. He highlighted their extensive development and production expertise in wind turbine and industrial gears, spanning over three decades and half a century, respectively. Recognizing this valuable expertise, ZF has designated Witten as the headquarters for its new Industrial Drives business unit.
The acquisition agreement, signed on May 13th, awaits approval from antitrust authorities. Financial details of the transaction remain undisclosed.
