On March 25, 2022, Smile Invest will acquire a majority stake in Sentech. In order to achieve its growth ambitions and long-term objectives, Sentech held exploratory discussions with several financial partners last year. Following a careful selection and due diligence process, the decision was made to collaborate with Smile Invest.
Sentech was founded in 2000 by Marcel Figge and now has more than 60 employees. Sentech's sensor solutions are used worldwide in applications within the semiconductor industry, automotive, healthcare, and agromarkets. Due to the rise of innovations such as autonomous vehicles, the Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence, the sensor market is expected to continue to grow strongly in the coming years.
Commercial Director Marco Leeggangers and Operations Director Hermen Kobus will take on the day-to-day management of Sentech as a two-person executive team. Founder Marcel Figge will continue to focus on long-term strategic projects. Marcel Figge: “With Smile Invest, we’re bringing on board a partner that not only has the necessary network, capital, and technical expertise, but also aligns with our vision of creating long-term value for our customers in a transparent manner. Smile’s entry into the shareholder structure comes at a time when we are ready to take the next major step. With these new resources and expertise, we will invest in building a solid footprint outside the Netherlands and further professionalizing our operational facilities.”
Marco Leeggangers and Hermen Kobus add: “In recent years, we have been actively involved as managers in building the foundation. Now, in our new roles, we can set the direction ourselves to become a leading supplier of integrated sensor solutions in Northwestern Europe, and to make Sentech an even stronger company. This feels like a logical step for us, but it remains a new chapter, which is why we are pleased to bring in an experienced partner like Smile Invest who will help us navigate the next phase.”
Ad Notenboom and Bart Cauberghe, partners at Smile Invest: “For us, Sentech is the prime example of a Dutch high-tech gem with a unique market position. The professionalism of the organization, the quality of its solutions, and its high customer satisfaction are at a level typically seen in companies that are a few years ahead. Sentech's technically innovative profile, combined with its strong growth ambitions, aligns perfectly with our investment focus. We will support Sentech in achieving these ambitions and believe the company is perfectly equipped for both organic and inorganic growth of its activities.”
Over Smile Invest
Smile Invest (Smart Money for Innovation Leaders) is a European evergreen investment company with €350 million in capital under management, funded by 40 entrepreneurial families with a long-term focus on innovative growth companies. Smile Invest focuses on companies within three investment themes: digitalization, health, and sustainability. From offices in The Hague and Leuven, the team supports ambitious entrepreneurs and managers in achieving their growth plans.
