Gilde Equity Management Benelux Partners

Venborgh

Venborgh is a prominent producer of sanitary taps. The company consists of Venlo Kranen and CN-Borma. Venlo Kranen has for decades been a leading player in the Dutch sanitary market with its extensive and innovative tap programme. The Danish company Borma is focusing with its Danish design programme on the international market for design taps.

Venlo Kranen and CN-Borma jointly formed the tap division of ATAG NV. At the end of 1997 the listed company ATAG decided to split the group. As a result, the management of the tap division was given an opportunity to continue the company as an independent operation through a management buy out. In mid-1998 the takeover was a reality. Alongside the management and ATAG, GEM Benelux acquired an interest in the company.

Since the buy-out both companies have achieved healthy turnover and profit growth. In February 2001 Venlo Kranen was acquired by American Standard Companies Inc (ASCI). ASCI is a global player in the tap market. Through the acquisition of Venlo Kranen, ASCI has strengthened its position in Europe.