Oerlikon announced that it has signed an agreement to sell its Leybold Vacuum business to Atlas Copco. The transaction is based on an enterprise value of CHF 525 million and is expected to close by middle of the year 2016. The divestment of its Vacuum Segment to Atlas Copco marks the 13th strategic transaction for the Group since 2010. It will allow the Group to further allocate resources and management attention to its strategic growth areas. Dr. Brice Koch, CEO, Oerlikon said, ?This is another important milestone in our strategic effort toward focusing our businesses on attractive core growth markets in the fields of energy, mobility and urbanisation. We intend to use the proceeds to invest in sustainable profitable growth within our core competencies.?

Atlas Copco is the ideal owner to unfold the full potential of Oerlikon Leybold Vacuum as it has a strong position and wide expertise in the vacuum and compressor sector. The enterprise value for Oerlikon Leybold Vacuum is CHF 525 million. In 2014, the Segment generated sales of CHF 390 million and as of June 30, 2015, has 1,646 employees worldwide. The transaction provides Oerlikon with a stronger position to invest in its leading businesses funding innovation, operational excellence as well as organic and inorganic growth opportunities.