Bucher Unipektin acquires German drying technology equipment supplier Merk Process GmbH

Bucher Unipektin is acquiring 100 % of the German vacuum drying system supplier Merk Process GmbH. With the acquisition Bucher Unipektin further strengthens its vacuum and freeze drying capabilities.

Merk Process was founded in 1994 by Dieter Merk, is privately owned and located in Laufenburg (Germany). The company supplies vacuum drying systems for the food, pharmaceutical and chemical industries and generated net sales of EUR 4 million in 2020. Its expertise is based on many years of practical experience in plant construction combined with efficient, innovative engineering skills. With the transaction Mr. Merk found an attractive and sustainable succession solution not only for his customers but also for the employees of Merk Process.

Together with Merk Process, Bucher Unipektin is in the position to supply a broader range of innovative and sound drying technologies and to provide an enhanced customer service offering to the vacuum and freeze drying customers of the two companies on a global base.

Following the transaction, the drying activities of both companies will be concentrated at Merk Process’ site in Laufenburg (Germany). Dieter Merk will actively contribute and assist the combining of the two companies’ technologies and knowhow as a consultant in the next years.

Bucher Unipektin, a Swiss based business unit of Bucher Industries AG, is a globally leading manufacturer of plants and components for juice and beer production, as well as vacuum and freeze drying for the food industry. The business unit is operating globally with production sites in Switzerland, Spain and China supported by a global distribution network and own sales and service organisations in Poland, Ukraine, Russia, New Zealand and Mexico.