Middleby acquires Colussi Ermes, leader in the production of industrial washing systems

(July 28, 2022) – Middleby Corporation announces the acquisition of Colussi Ermes, global leader in the production of automated washing solutions for the foodservice industry. The company, which realized over 5,000 machines worldwide and an annual turnover of about 50 million Euros, thanks to its continuous research and consolidated know-how over the years, has become specialized not only in the meat, dairy, confectionery, fruit & vegetables, poultry and fishery sectors but also in more complex fields such as the pharmaceutical, hospital and logistics sectors.

“Colussi Ermes is a highly respected, global leader directly addressing food safety and sanitation, a top priority across the entire food processing industry,” said Tim FitzGerald, Middleby CEO. “Colussi has the broadest offerings of automated washing solutions, covering a wide array of applications. Their washing solutions are in demand due to technology that reduces labor needs, decreases water and energy usage, minimizes chemical use and operates in a small footprint. The Colussi washing systems complement our existing food processing solutions and are incorporated in many of our current customer projects. This acquisition will support a significant opportunity for collaboration with brands presently in our portfolio, to deliver best-in-class, full-line solutions to our customers.”

“The transaction makes me proud as it represents the acknowledgment of the value of the company by a leading international group, created over more than 50 years thanks to the work of all the people who are a fundamental part of Colussi Ermes,” said Giovanni Battista Colussi, Chairman of the Company. “The Colussi family wants to offer Colussi Ermes the best prospects within the most qualified international industrial group, in order to accelerate its development with broader and more ambitious objectives. My sons and I will continue to be actively involved, with Andrea and Chiara in a first line position as CEO and co-CEO of Colussi Ermes, guaranteeing continuity and full commitment for a successful path of growth. Middleby has recognized the value of the company, its people and the skills available in the local community and is willing to invest in them”.

The shareholders of Colussi Ermes have been assisted by Mediobanca as financial advisor and BonelliErede as legal advisor.