Zurich-based SF-Filter Group has acquired Hermans Brems NV, a former distribution partner based in Halen, Belgium. With this acquisition, efffective from the start of this month, the Group strengthens its position as one of the leading independent distribution platforms for mobile and industrial filters in the European market and expands its presence in the Flanders region.

Since its founding in 1968, SF-Filter has evolved into a leading provider of filter solutions for applications in areas such as air, fuel, hydraulics, oil, and pneumatics. With a broad range of end users, as well as resellers, the company has established itself as a ‘one stop shop’ for filters.

SF-Filter has been pursuing an ambitious growth strategy since 2022, aiming to continuously expand its market position as the preferred filter partner throughout Europe through acquisitions. In October 2023, the Group acquired Busse & Kuntze Filter GmbH, one of the most well-known full-range suppliers for industry and commerce in Germany.

Through the acquisition of the former distribution partner Hermans Brems supported by its funding partner Livingstone Partners, SF-Filter gains access to customers in the attractive Flemish aftermarket. Hermans Brems’ location will continue to be operated under the current management, and all employees will be retained. SF-Filter will primarily provide operational support and drive the further growth of Hermans Brems by giving the distribution access to the entire range of over 140,000 filters and support in digitalisation investments. Hermans Brems is among the most renowned filter specialists in Flanders and has been established in the aftermarket for mobile and industrial filtration for decades.

Daniel Infanger, CEO of the SF-Filter Group, said: “We are pleased to welcome Hermans Brems, a long-standing distribution partner, into the Group, strengthening our regional presence in the Flemish market. The acquisition marks a successful start to 2024, where we intend to continue our growth strategy through further acquisitions.”

Geert Kleynen, managing director of Hermans Brems, added: “We look back on extremely positive experiences with the previous majority owner, HSH Invest NV. For the next stage of development, we have found an important strategic partner in SF-Filter, who has already distinguished themselves through successful collaboration in the past. By continuing our business operations from our location in Flanders, we can ensure the best possible support for our customers, now further expanded through full access to the wide range of products and services from SF-Filter.”

The SF-Filter Group, with locations in Switzerland, Germany, Austria, France, and Poland, is a leading European partner in the distribution of mobile and industrial filters of all types and origins. With a range of 140,000 filter types (of which 40,000 are immediately available) for applications such as oil, air, fuel, hydraulics, pneumatics, liquids, dust removal, and air conditioning, end customers, resellers, and original equipment manufacturers from 60 countries can be supplied quickly and seamlessly. In addition to the SF own brand and well-known branded products, SF-Filter offers individual system solutions and special designs, allowing customers to access a comprehensive package.