More strategy than tactics: Mehler takes a stake in Lindnerhof

"Yes. MVS has acquired a majority stake (74%) in LHT. Both companies will continue to operate as independent companies in the market, and your previous contacts will remain the same." This is the information that Mehler Vario System (MVS) employees are supposed to give when asked about Lindnerhof Taktik (LHT) now. Important customers have been informed, but apart from this information and the change in the commercial registry, there are no plans to publicize the change in the corporate structure of LHT in the media.

According to SPARTANAT, Mehler "has had a very positive business relationship with Lindnerhof Taktik for some time and is very impressed by what the employees of LHT have achieved." Lindnerhof Taktik has built up enormous expertise in the field of modular tactical equipment, especially in equipment pockets for vests, in recent years. Customers like the Bundeswehr and special forces highly value LHT products. The Mehler company sees a strategic added value in working together with LHT in the future, as there is a significant overlap in customers and the products complement each other very well. Or as defined by Mehler: "The long-term goal of MVS is to become one of the most important system suppliers for comprehensive equipment for the Bundeswehr, police, and special forces. Through the strategic partnership with LHT, MVS acquires very good product competence in textiles and application know-how for equipment items."

The appreciation for the company that has now been mostly acquired is also very clear. In this partnership, MVS intends to focus on the independence of LHT: the brands "Lindnerhof Taktik" and "High Quality Gear - HQG" will continue to be operated independently, it is emphasized. Additionally, MVS clearly commits to the location in Lenggries and to the employees. The goal is to utilize synergies: LHT and MVS will work closely together in product development and can mutually benefit from each other's experiences in product development and sales.

Lindnerhof Taktik was founded in 2006 by former KSK soldier Josef Sixt, who is still a shareholder (26%) and managing director after the acquisition by MVS. LHT produces modular tactical equipment and gear for the police and military, especially their special forces. The products primarily include pouches for ammunition and equipment (approx. 50%), chest rigs, belts, backpacks, and carry bags (approx. 25%), as well as plate carriers and carrying systems (25%). Existing interface with Mehler: When ballistic protective elements are needed (primarily plate carriers), they are sourced from MVS.

There are also many overlaps in customers with MVS. The main customers are the Bundeswehr, the Swiss and Austrian armies, as well as various special police units. In addition, individuals are served through various trading partners and the own online shop under the HQG (High-Quality-Gear) brand. The company employs approximately 50 employees at the location in Lenggries (south of Munich) and generates an annual turnover of approximately 10+ million euros.

Mehler Vario System has been manufacturing Mehler ballistic protective products for police, military, and special forces for over 30 years. Over 2,000 different models and more than 500 certified protective designs have been developed in close collaboration with users, and more than 500,000 protective vests have been delivered worldwide. Mehler is active in over 40 countries today and is valued as a reliable and innovative partner. "The majority takeover is a huge advantage for Lindnerhof Taktik," explains LHT managing director Josef Sixt to SPARTANAT. He sees the development as very positive, as at Lindnerhof they can now focus more on the core business with special forces while also gaining a European dimension and the opportunity to produce in large quantities.

The merger of Mehler with Lindnerhof is more about strategy than tactics: With the majority takeover, which already took place quietly in mid-December, a professional equipment provider is entering the German and European markets with a scale that is more commonly associated with large companies in the American market.

Mehler Vario System on the web: m-v-s.de

HQG on the web: www.hqg.de

Linderhof Taktik on the web: www.lindnerhof-taktik.de