Berk Partners Acquires Majority Stake in BEGE Aandrijftechniek

Berk Partners has acquired a majority stake in BEGE Aandrijftechniek, a family-owned company specializing in the design, assembly, and supply of drive systems and control technology. The transaction, announced on September 30, 2026, marks a pre-exit investment by Berk Partners Groeifonds II, with BEGE’s former owner Gerard Paulides and the management team retaining minority stakes.

Founded in 1950 by Bernardus Gerardus Paulides, BEGE Aandrijftechniek has grown into a leading drive systems specialist serving machine builders and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) across various sectors. The company operates from Sassenheim and Nieuwerkerk aan den IJssel, where its subsidiary Komak focuses on innovative pump systems. BEGE’s product range includes drive systems, control and servo technology, transmission components, and pump solutions, catering primarily to the food industry, agri-technology, and industrial sectors.

In 2024, BEGE expanded its portfolio by acquiring Komak, which supplies pump systems for maritime, aquaculture, HVAC, and petrochemical applications. This acquisition broadened BEGE’s product offering from drive systems to integrated driven products, enhancing its market position.

Gerard Paulides, former owner of BEGE, remains involved as a shareholder. The company’s management, led by CEO Marcel Biesma and Chief Commercial Officer Alex van den Berg, also joined as shareholders through this transaction. Paulides commented, “BEGE Aandrijftechniek has been a driving force behind OEMs and industrial manufacturers for 76 years. Our strong reputation with Dutch and international clients is a solid foundation. Partnering with Berk Partners allows us to maintain our entrepreneurial culture and technical expertise while pursuing further growth.”

CEO Marcel Biesma added, “Berk Partners brings an extensive network in the markets where BEGE operates. Together, we have developed a strategic plan that provides a strong basis for the company’s continued expansion.”

Willem Kamps, partner at Berk Partners, highlighted the firm’s commitment to the Dutch manufacturing sector: “We are excited to collaborate with BEGE, a company that plays a vital role in the Dutch industrial landscape where ongoing automation is key to competitiveness. We look forward to supporting BEGE’s ambitious growth plans.” His colleague Joost Smaal noted, “Gerard Paulides and his team have built an impressive company focused on innovation and quality. We see significant growth opportunities for both BEGE and Komak across their diverse end markets.”

Berk Partners, established in 1992, is an independent investment firm that focuses on mid-sized Dutch companies with proven business models and strong market positions. The firm leverages over 30 years of sector expertise and a broad network to support portfolio companies in achieving profitable growth, both organically and through acquisitions. Berk Partners Groeifonds II, the current fund with nearly €80 million in assets, has made five platform investments, including BEGE.

The acquisition is expected to generate synergies by cross-selling BEGE’s drive systems alongside Komak’s pump solutions to existing OEM and industrial clients. It also aims to expand sales into adjacent sectors such as maritime, aquaculture, HVAC, and petrochemicals. Operational efficiencies are anticipated through consolidated procurement and streamlined manufacturing processes. BEGE’s engineering capabilities will be leveraged to accelerate product innovation and improve service levels with shorter lead times.

BEGE holds a strong position in stainless steel drive solutions designed for high-hygiene environments requiring resistance to pressure, dirt, and corrosion. The integration of Komak’s pump systems enhances BEGE’s product breadth, strengthening its competitive stance in the Netherlands and broader European industrial markets.

Challenges include aligning the corporate cultures of a family-owned business and private equity ownership, integrating Komak’s operations, maintaining high service standards during the transition, and retaining key management and technical personnel.

The deal reflects a broader trend of consolidation and innovation in the industrial automation and manufacturing sectors, where companies seek to offer integrated solutions and improve operational efficiency to meet evolving customer demands.

Looking ahead, BEGE and Berk Partners plan to execute the strategic growth plan, focusing on product development, market expansion, and operational excellence. Regulatory approvals are not expected to pose significant hurdles given the nature of the transaction.

This partnership positions BEGE to capitalize on increasing automation trends and the demand for specialized drive and pump systems, supporting its ambition to remain a leading player in the industrial technology space.