Durst acquires sustainable water-based applications manufacturer Aleph

Durst Group has acquired Aleph SrL, a pioneer in sustainable digital solutions for textiles and interior and exterior decorations. Durst Group says the move will enhance its position in water-based and sustainable printing technologies. For Durst Group, the acquisition also serves as a bridge to Como, Italy, a centre of textile design and high-quality applications.

Established in 2000 as a software house, Aleph has transitioned from being a distributor of textile consumables to an independent manufacturer of innovative machines for digital water-based printing.

"We are delighted to welcome Aleph into the Durst family," says Christoph Gamper, CEO and co-owner of Durst Group. "Their expertise in sustainable, water-based applications, their software for high-end textiles, and their creative solutions for water-based poster printing align perfectly with our vision of pushing the boundaries of digital printing technology. Together, we will strengthen our market position, expand our product portfolio, and enhance value for our global customers."

"Collaborating with Durst Group marks an exciting new chapter for Aleph," said Alessandro Manes, CEO of Aleph SrL. "Our shared passion for technological innovation, the pursuit of excellence, and the commitment to true sustainability define this collaboration. Together, we have the opportunity to make significant advancements in the digital textiles, exterior, and interior decoration sectors."

Following investment from Wise Equity in 2017 and a progressive journey to internationalise, to position itself in special applications in the textile industry and adjacent sectors such as billboard printing, the company today generates over 60 per cent of its revenue in more than 20 countries.

In recent years, markets for digital printing technologies with water-based ink applications have experienced rapid growth, driven by increasing demand for environmentally friendly and customisable products. To meet this market trend, not only high-performance printing systems with eco-friendly ink systems are necessary, but also extensive process knowledge and integrated software solutions, which both companies aim to combine optimally through this merger.

"We are very proud to have accompanied Aleph during these years of transformation from a distributor to a machinery manufacturer,” says Valentina Franceschini, Senior Partner at Wise Equity. “Today, among the leaders in sustainable innovation, Aleph has achieved significant goals in terms of organisation, product range, and technological development, and we are confident that Durst represents the ideal partner to continue the growth journey."

The strategic acquisition aims to leverage synergies between the two companies by combining Durst Group's global presence and extensive procurement network with Aleph's expertise in sustainable digital solutions – machines and software – for textiles and decoration. This seamlessly aligns with Durst Group's strategy to diversify its portfolio and meet the evolving needs of its customers across various industries.

Durst Group and Aleph have committed to ensuring a smooth transition for their customers, partners, and employees during the integration process.