Eckart Hydraulics plans its succession strategically

"We look back on many successful years and are currently right on track," says Markus Eckart. "But anyone thinking about the future must take responsibility early on." Since there is no succession option within the family, the focus was on finding a solution that ensures the company's continuity, strengthens employee trust, and preserves established customer relationships. "Our employees and our proximity to customers are central pillars of our success – and should remain so in the future."

Eckart emphasises: "The decision to sell our family business was one of the most challenging decisions of our professional life. However, this decision was not made out of necessity, but from the clear strategic conviction that it is the right step to ensure Eckart Hydraulics' long-term future viability."

After a careful and forward-looking selection process, the GESCO Group emerged as the ideal partner for the company's succession. The publicly listed company based in Wuppertal, Germany aims to unite successful medium-sized market and technology leaders into a strong corporate group – especially where unresolved succession issues exist. With its long-term strategy and understanding of entrepreneurial values, GESCO offers the best conditions to secure the future of Eckart Hydraulics for the benefit of employees, customers, and partners.

The company will continue to operate independently and autonomously, the trusted team will remain fully intact, and Markus Eckart will continue in his role as managing director.

"It was precisely this continuity that was a central part of our discussions," emphasises Markus Eckart. "What convinced us was that GESCO recognises Eckart's identity, does not want to restrict entrepreneurial freedom, and instead focuses on sustainable development – with appreciation for the long-standing expertise of our employees and a clear commitment to customer proximity."

Johannes Pfeffer, CEO of the GESCO Group, also stresses the importance of the partnership: "Eckart's expertise in hydraulic actuator technology represents a valuable addition to our existing business areas. We are confident in the company's growth potential and aim to support Eckart specifically in gaining additional market share and advancing innovative product solutions."

This also opens up new perspectives, as Markus Eckart concludes: "We are bridging the gap between tradition and innovation. With the GESCO Group by our side, we can purposefully develop our services and offerings – without losing sight of the values and the established identity of our company. I look forward to this new chapter with confidence and anticipation."