Düsseldorf – GP Products GmbH, part of the Dutch AM Group, has acquired the business operations of the AC Schnitzer car brand from Kohl automobile GmbH. AC Schnitzer was founded in 1987 and is particularly well known for its performance products and vehicle customisation for the BMW and Mini brands. With this acquisition, the AM Group is expanding its portfolio to include an established brand and laying the foundations for its further international development in the market for high-quality vehicle customisation.
A CMS team led by Dr Maximilian Seidel-Hacker provided comprehensive legal advice to the AM Group on the transaction. This included, in particular, the drafting and negotiation of all transaction agreements, as well as matters relating to the transfer and protection of intellectual property rights, licence provisions and industrial property rights. In addition, CMS provided support on tax and public law aspects. The AM Group has relied on CMS’s expertise in the past regarding the acquisition of UBC Composites.
The AM Group is a Dutch group of companies operating in the premium vehicle modification sector. The group combines expertise in engineering, carbon fibre manufacturing, vehicle customisation, sales and automotive information systems. Its portfolio includes specialist brands such as Absolute Motors, Urban Automotive, Heritage Customs, UBC Composites and GP Products.
As the acquirer of AC Schnitzer’s business operations, the AM Group will continue to operate and further develop the brand emphasizing on preserving the brand’s identity and strong heritage.
AC Schnitzer is an up-to-now Aachen-based specialist in bespoke tuning components, particularly for BMW and Mini models. Its product range includes, amongst other things, performance upgrades, suspension solutions, exhaust systems, aerodynamic components and alloy wheels. The takeover by the AM Group opens up new opportunities for the brand to invest in design and engineering, as well as to pursue further international growth.
