Sicer Expands with Ardian's Strategic Investment

Deal News | Mar 19, 2025 | Finance Community IT - 3 Private Equity

Sicer Expands with Ardian's Strategic Investment

Ardian, a prominent global investment firm, has acquired a minority stake in Sicer, a company specializing in high-end ceramic coatings. The transaction supports Sicer's executives, Gianfranco Padovani, Giuliano Ferrari, and Marco Eumenidi, who have reinvested for a majority share, demonstrating confidence in the firm's growth. The acquisition, financed by banks including UniCredit, BNL BNP Paribas, and Crédit Agricole Italia, aims to bolster Sicer's position in Europe and facilitate expansion in markets like the United States and India. A host of advisors, including Mediobanca, PedersoliGattai, and Advancy, among others, played roles in various aspects of the transaction. Established in 1993 in Fiorano Modenese, Sicer closed 2024 with a revenue of approximately 130 million euros. The company's future strategy focuses on product innovation, quality, sustainability, and enhanced service offerings.

Sectors

  • Private Equity
  • Ceramic Manufacturing
  • Financial Services

Geography

  • Italy – Sicer is headquartered in Fiorano Modenese, and several Italian entities played a part in the transaction.
  • Global – Ardian is a global investment firm, and Sicer has production sites in various countries including Spain, the United States, Mexico, India, and Indonesia.

Industry

  • Private Equity – The acquisition of a minority stake in Sicer by Ardian, a key player in the sector, highlights the industry's role in strategic investment and growth facilitation.
  • Ceramic Manufacturing – Sicer engages in the production of innovative, high-performance coatings for premium ceramic tiles, making it a key player in this industry.
  • Financial Services – Various banks and financial advisors are involved in financing the acquisition, highlighting the importance of financial services in supporting investment transactions.

Financials

  • 130 million euros – Sicer's revenue for the year 2024.

Participants

NameRoleTypeDescription
SicerTargetCompanySpecializes in the production of coatings for high-end ceramic decoration.
ArdianBuyerCompanyA leading global private investment firm.
UniCredit, BNL BNP Paribas, Crédit Agricole ItaliaFinanciersCompanyBanks that financed the transaction.
MediobancaFinancial Advisor (Buy-side)CompanyProvided financial advisory services.
PedersoliGattai, Studio legale Sutich Barbieri SutichLegal AdvisorsCompanyProvided legal advisory services.
Advancy, KPMG, Gitti&Partners, Abaco Commercialisti Associati, Poggi&Associati, Ramboll, MactavishDue Diligence AdvisorsCompanyConducted various due diligence activities including business, financial, tax, ESG, and insurance.
DC AdvisoryFinancial AdvisorCompanyActed for seller on financial advisory aspects.
Giuliano Padovani, Giuliano Ferrari, Marco EumenidiExecutives and InvestorsPeopleReinvested to acquire majority control in Sicer.