Schmitz Cargobull Acquires Berger Fahrzeugtechnik Stake

Schmitz Cargobull AG has acquired the remaining 51% stake in Berger Fahrzeugtechnik GmbH, completing its transition to full ownership of the lightweight construction specialist. The transaction, announced on April 21, 2026, follows Schmitz Cargobull’s initial 49% investment in Berger in 2024. The deal is subject to approval by competition authorities.

The acquisition consolidates Berger’s expertise in lightweight chassis technology with Schmitz Cargobull’s industrial manufacturing capabilities and extensive sales and service network across Europe. Since 2024, the companies have collaborated closely, including joint investments in production technology at Berger’s Radfeld site and the development of the BERGERecotrail Evolution Generation product line. This new generation combines Berger’s weight-optimized chassis with Schmitz Cargobull’s modular and versatile body systems.

Schmitz Cargobull AG, headquartered in Münsterland, Germany, is a leading European manufacturer of semi-trailers for temperature-controlled freight, general cargo, and bulk goods. The family-owned company employs over 6,000 people and produced approximately 50,000 vehicles in the 2024/25 financial year, generating revenues around €2.16 billion. Its international production footprint includes facilities in Germany, Lithuania, Spain, Turkey, Romania, and the UK.

Berger Fahrzeugtechnik GmbH, based in Horstmar/Radfeld, specializes in lightweight construction and chassis solutions for trailers. The company’s focus on weight-optimized components complements Schmitz Cargobull’s modular trailer bodies, enabling more efficient transport solutions.

Andreas Schmitz, CEO of Schmitz Cargobull AG, states, “The collaboration has demonstrated the depth of technical expertise and commitment behind Berger Fahrzeugtechnik’s products. With this acquisition, we gain Berger’s distinctive expertise in lightweight construction, which ideally complements our portfolio. For our customers, this creates an even broader range of efficient transport solutions from a single source.” Gerhard Berger, main shareholder of Berger Fahrzeugtechnik, adds, “The handover and integration into the Schmitz Cargobull Group provides the ideal conditions for further developing our technologies more quickly and reaching more customers in Europe. Combining our lightweight construction expertise with Schmitz Cargobull’s industrial strength and network provides a solid foundation for further growth.”

The integration aims to secure and expand Berger’s specialization in lightweight construction within Schmitz Cargobull’s established structures. Customers will benefit from an expanded trailer portfolio that combines Berger’s lightweight chassis with Schmitz Cargobull’s Europe-wide sales, service, and spare parts network. Existing products, contacts, and services will remain unchanged during the transition.

Strategically, the acquisition enhances Schmitz Cargobull’s market position by broadening its product offering and accelerating innovation through combined R&D efforts. Shared investments in production technology and streamlined supply chains are expected to generate cost efficiencies. The deal also strengthens Schmitz Cargobull’s competitive stance amid ongoing industry consolidation and increasing demand for integrated, efficient transport solutions.

Challenges include aligning corporate cultures, managing regulatory approvals, and ensuring seamless integration of production technologies while retaining key technical talent from Berger. The transaction remains subject to antitrust clearance by relevant authorities.

Looking ahead, Schmitz Cargobull plans to leverage the combined expertise to accelerate product development and expand its customer base across Europe. The full integration of Berger Fahrzeugtechnik is positioned as a strategic step to deliver enhanced value and innovation in the semi-trailer manufacturing sector.