UK Geiger strengthens global presence with the acquisition of WER GmbH
July 11, 2024 - Lewiston, Maine, USA - Geiger is pleased to announce the acquisition of WER GmbH, a dominant branded merchandise and apparel distributor based in Senden, Germany. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Geiger’s ongoing international growth strategy, significantly strengthening its presence in Europe.
WER GmbH, established in 1992, operates six offices and several warehouses across Germany, including major cities such as Munich, Cologne, and Frankfurt. With a dedicated team of over 100 employees, WER GmbH has built a reputation for excellence with diverse clientele with innovative product media solutions and unparalleled service. Their alignment with Geiger's comprehensive service offerings—including kitting, company stores, international distribution, custom products, in house decoration and warehousing—will further enhance the range of services available to the newly combined customer base.
The integration process will begin immediately, with WER GmbH rebranding to WER GmbH, a Geiger Company.
“We have known Geiger as a global leader for many years and they have proven themselves to operate with honesty and integrity and share the same values and culture as WER. These qualities are vital to working in our marketplace and within our customer base,” said Alex Heinecke, CEO of WER GmbH. “Geiger's global network and industry leadership will provide our clients with enhanced services and offerings. We are confident that this partnership will be beneficial for our customers and employees alike.”
Back Row L-R: Alex Heinecke, Marc Strickrodt, Rob WozniakFront Row L-R: Mirco Häßlich, Vicky Kinasz, David Geiger
Commenting on the acquisition, Vicky Kinasz, Vice President/Managing Director of Geiger International, stated, “We are thrilled to welcome WER GmbH to the Geiger family. This acquisition further expands our international presence and enhances our capabilities in key markets. The synergy between our organizations will create new opportunities for innovation and growth, further benefiting our many international clients.
All employees have been retained by Geiger, including Marc Strickrodt, CFO, and Mirco Häßlich, Director, along with Alex Heinecke, CEO of WER GmbH, who will continue to lead the division under the new ownership. The expertise and leadership of WER GmbH’s executive team will be instrumental in ensuring a seamless transition and in driving future growth.
“Geiger is continuing our strategic path forward in servicing Global clients. WER GmbH culture, commitment to the highest service, quality, and ESG standards exceeded our expectations. By leveraging the strengths and resources of both organizations, we will deliver even greater value and innovative solutions to the market,” stated Jo-an Lantz, President and CEO of Geiger. She continued with, “One thing is for certain, Geiger is global. Now more than ever.”
While Geiger has successfully completed five acquisitions in the UK, the acquisition of WER marks their first in Germany.
For more information, please visit www.geiger.com.
ABOUT GEIGER
Geiger is the largest privately held and family-owned promotional products distributor in the world. A fifth-generation business headquartered in Lewiston, Maine, Geiger operates from offices throughout the U.S. and Europe and is affiliated with more than 450 independent sales representatives. Geiger is a socially and environmentally conscientious company, providing proactive, comprehensive marketing solutions to their clients.
MEDIA CONTACT
Stephanie Whitman | Geiger
Vice President of Marketing
70 Mt. Hope Ave • Lewiston • Maine • 04240
207.755.2372 E: swhitman@geiger.com
geiger.com