K+K Swiss secures business successions personally and independently.

In less than 10 years, K+K Swiss has built an entrepreneurial network of successful companies and brands centered on sustainable mobility. 

In this context, the hidden champion KUKKO is the Top Performer of the group. Smaller, but just as niche-focused, the brands Wilbär and Tirax also contribute to the portfolio.

Building on the expertise and solidity of its established business areas, K+K Swiss is expanding its activities into investment. The focus of this new business field is providing private capital to ensure the continuation of small and medium-sized family businesses.
 

Background

In Germany alone, according to KfW, up to 200,000 SMEs are expected to face a handover in the next two years—without even a rudimentary succession plan in sight. Across the entire DACH region, the number is estimated to affect several hundred thousand. In times of economic downturn, the succession crisis is a particularly serious challenge for the companies concerned.


On average, an orderly succession process takes at least a year. In times of recession and looming corporate insolvency, this timeframe is not an option. At the same time, many SMEs are wary of traditional M&A banks and renowned advisors for company acquisitions. As a result, company values and life’s work are put at risk and often even destroyed.

Left: company founder Alfred Kleinbongartz; right: Max Alfred Kleinbongartz, 5th generation

The uniqueness of a family-run investment company.


K+K Swiss emerged from a family story that created something new out of tradition. Thanks to the entrepreneurial DNA of a manufacturing company with a long tradition, the leadership body of the Swiss corporate group understands the pressing succession issues facing SMEs. The aim is to preserve economic value and to plan business continuity autonomously.

Thanks to a lean structure and the Kleinbongartz family’s 100% autonomy, K+K Swiss can quickly provide short-notice acquisition financing with up to CHF 1 million in purchase-price capital. As an investor, K+K Swiss delivers not only financing, but also valuable know-how—especially in the metalworking industry—as well as an international network to maximize the SME’s growth potential.

From left to right: Adrian Mitas, Michael Kleinbongartz, Lada Rymarev

Holistic support throughout the sales process.


In addition, the Swiss team supports the following services in order to successfully complete the transaction within a few months:
 

  • Company valuation and analysis
  • Organization of the takeover process
  • Due diligence
  • Entrepreneurial support for tax and legal matters in the sales process

Your point of contact to discuss your individual needs regarding business succession:

Caroline Blome, Director of Communication and Relations

Step

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Portrait of Michael Kleinbongartz in front of a wall with decals
Owner Michael Kleinbongartz, K+K Swiss and fourth-generation entrepreneur.

The privately financed succession models offer different options.
 

Equity participation: In addition to a full transfer to K+K Swiss, a gradual succession arrangement can also ensure the company’s continuation. In this case, the previous owner remains in the operational management team as a co-shareholder or advisor, while K+K Swiss gradually assumes more responsibility. This steady takeover ensures the transfer of know-how while minimizing risk for both sides.

Earn-out model: Here, K+K Swiss invests part of the purchase price. This means the seller receives a defined amount, while further payments are tied to the company’s future performance. As a win-win, K+K Swiss reduces its financial risk, while the seller continues to benefit from future growth.

"Which model is right for you depends on your financial, strategic, and personal situation—but do not underestimate the importance of early and strategically planned succession." Michael Kleinbongartz.