Bosch Sprang specializes in thermoform tooling technology for machinery makers such as Illig, Gabler, Kiefel, Bellaform, OMV, TFT and Brown. The company's primary technology is in the development and manufacture of tilting molds for use in the production of plastic cups, an area in which the company is a "world leader," said Kiefel's information. Bosch Sprang is a global supplier of thermoformed rigid packaging parts, offering full service capabilities from product development, prototyping, sample production and production optimization to customer service.

"This deal does not just bring together two of the technology and market world leaders but also two teams with an absolutely customer-centered approach and an eye to the future," said Kiefel CEO Thomas J. Halletz. "The range of services supplied by Bosch Sprang also perfectly matches Kiefel's portfolio as a manufacturer of thermoforming machines, while enhancing our ability to serve the highly demanding tooling needs of the premium segment."

The acquisition marks a further step in the growth strategy of the Bruckner Group, which aims to strengthen the position of its existing members by extending the range of products and services available. The management of Bosch Sprang will be handled by the existing CEO Rob Smeulders and Thorsten Emge, presently the Head of Central Engineering at Kiefel GmbH.