Siparex ETI Buys Majority Stake in ATK Sports

French investment firm Siparex ETI has secured a majority stake in ATK Sports, a prominent Italian manufacturer of ski mountaineering bindings. The transaction sees Siparex ETI partnering with the founding Indulti family and other financial backers, including BNP Paribas, to propel the company's next phase of expansion. This move marks a significant step for Siparex ETI's newly established Italian operations, signaling its commitment to supporting industrial growth within the country.

ATK Sports, founded in 2006 and headquartered in Fiorano Modenese, has carved out a global leadership position in precision-engineered bindings for ski mountaineering and high-performance outdoor components. Under the guidance of CEO Davide Indulti, representing the second generation of the founding family, and with prior support from private equity firm Progressio SGR, the company has experienced substantial international growth. ATK Sports now generates over 85% of its revenue from international markets, serving more than 1,100 specialized retailers and 25 distributors across 30 countries.

The company's recent strategic investments, including a new headquarters in Maranello that tripled production capacity and a commercial office in Salt Lake City, underscore its ambitious trajectory. ATK Sports has demonstrated robust financial performance, with EBITDA approaching €10 million, reflecting its premium market positioning and operational efficiency. This growth has been fueled by a strong emphasis on innovation and manufacturing excellence, with all products proudly bearing the 100% Made in Italy designation.

The partnership with Siparex ETI is expected to accelerate ATK Sports' strategic objectives. Key initiatives include further international market penetration, the development of the rapidly expanding "hybrid" binding segment, and the introduction of new high-value product lines. The growth strategy will encompass both organic expansion and potential strategic acquisitions, with a particular focus on diversifying into innovative cycling components, including a revolutionary braking system.

For Progressio SGR, this divestiture represents a successful exit from its Investimenti III fund, marking its third such transaction in the past six months. Nino Mascellaro, Senior Partner at Progressio, expressed pride in supporting ATK Sports' impressive growth and industrial development, highlighting the company's blend of innovation and efficiency.

Davide Indulti, CEO of ATK Sports, emphasized the shared ambition with Siparex to elevate the company, leveraging enhanced resources and investment capacity. He noted the company's expansion in the snow sector and decisive acceleration in the bike segment, reinforcing ATK's role as a center of excellence for high-tech outdoor equipment. Thibaud de Portzamparc and Davide Vitrani of Siparex ETI lauded ATK's technological prowess and integrated industrial model, expressing enthusiasm for supporting its continued growth and diversification.