Philippe Jans acquisition by KLINGER Belgium bolsters global growth strategy

KLINGER Belgium, a subsidiary of KLINGER Group, has acquired Philippe Jans, a Belgian company that specializes in supplying rubber products for technical applications.

The acquisition is effective from March 27, 2023, and the company will be integrated into KLINGER Belgium’s operations in a phased manner. The move represents an important step in KLINGER’s strategy to expand its footprint and product portfolio, as well as to tap into the growth potential of the Belgian market.

Strengthening market presence in Belgium

Daniel Schibli, CEO of KLINGER Group, expressed his excitement about the acquisition, saying that it marks an important milestone in the Group’s growth strategy: “Philippe Jans’ expertise in rubber products and its strong brand recognition in the Belgian market are valuable additions to our portfolio. This acquisition enables us to serve a broader range of customers with an expanded product range, and to deepen our presence in the Belgian market.” The acquisition will enable KLINGER to offer a more diverse product range to its customers and enhance its ability to serve the MRO market.

Philippe Jans serves customers in various sectors such as energy, metals, food and beverage, the chemical and automotive industries, among others.

Expanding production capabilities

Philippe Jans’ cutting shop is another attractive aspect of the acquisition. With a self-adhesive layer to all flat materials and the ability to heat up endless sleeves, Philippe Jans can provide tailor-made services and deliver non-standard dimensions on short notice. This cutting shop capability will be of particular interest to KLINGER’s customers in the food and beverage, energy, and metals industries, where custom seals and gaskets are frequently required.

Philippe Jans’ business location close to the industrial hub of Antwerp is another advantage of the acquisition. This will enable KLINGER Belgium to benefit from local proximity to its customers and increase its presence in the northern area of Belgium. Manuel Sannen, Managing Director of KLINGER Belgium, sees significant growth potential in the Belgian market, saying, “We are excited to bring Philippe Jans into the KLINGER family and are confident that together we can further develop our position in the Belgian market. The local presence near Antwerp will be a strong asset to serve our customers better.”

Leadership transition

Christophe Jans, former CEO and shareholder of Philippe Jans, will take on the role of General Manager for the Ranst location and be responsible for production and operations. Manuel will remain Managing Director of KLINGER Belgium while taking on the additional role of Managing Director of Philippe Jans, which will gradually be integrated into KLINGER Belgium’s operations.

The acquisition brings cross-selling opportunities and strengthens KLINGER’s position as a leading supplier of industrial sealing solutions. As Christophe—who was seeking an opportunity to enlarge his former family-owned business mid-term—puts it, “We are excited to join the KLINGER Group and continue our growth journey together.”