Reorganisation & M&A

CLIENT CHALLENGE 

The client, a tier-1 supplier to the automotive industry with annual revenues of around EUR 600 million, faced an extremely challenging environment as a result of several crises within the sector. In 2019, the diesel crisis weighed heavily on the automotive industry. Just one year later, the Covid-19 pandemic triggered a prolonged global economic downturn. The semiconductor shortage severely disrupted production and, at times, brought entire plants to a standstill.

At the same time, rising material and freight costs, together with a marked increase in energy prices following the war in Ukraine, added further pressure. These multi-crisis scenarios significantly complicated the restructuring process, as the company had to adjust its production plans and capacities at short notice and continually review its assumptions. Transparent information, flexibility and consistent entrepreneurial management proved decisive in successfully navigating the volatile market environment.

HASELHORST APPROACH  

Haselhorst Associates developed and implemented a comprehensive restructuring process that included a strategic realignment. The approach combined strategic planning with operational implementation expertise.

Key elements of the approach:

• Comprehensive status quo analysis to identify weaknesses and opportunities
• Development of a detailed restructuring concept to restore profitability
• Operational management of the restructuring process in the role of Co-CEO, CFO and CRO, supported by a dedicated team
• Adaptation of organisational structures and processes to increase efficiency
• Continuous monitoring and adaptation to changing market conditions
• Structured handover of the reorganisation project to the client’s management

Throughout the process, transparent communication with stakeholders and a consistent entrepreneurial approach were crucial to success.

RESULTS

The restructuring delivered lasting improvements and strengthened the company’s long-term position:

• Professionalisation of existing structures and processes to enhance efficiency and governance
• Long-term improvement in profitability, financing structure and liquidity
• Safeguarding the company’s strategic realignment and long-term viability

Through the measures taken, the client was able to respond flexibly to market changes while maintaining both operational and financial stability.

ABOUT THE CLIENT

The client is a Tier-1 supplier in the automotive industry with an annual turnover of around €600 million. The company provides components and systems to leading automotive manufacturers and operates multiple production sites. The restructuring project lasted 36 months, with Dr Arno Haselhorst serving as the primary contact. Haselhorst Associates supported the client both strategically and operationally, including direct management involvement via the CRO role, ensuring short-term survival as well as long-term strategic positioning.