IndustryIndustrials and Automotive

Driving value creation through strategy, M&A, and transformation

As a key pillar of the German-speaking and European economy, industrials and automotive companies face huge global market and competitive challenges, including cost inflation, supply chain complexity, digital disruption, and rising sustainability demands. Those who successfully combine strategy, M&A, and transformation outperform in value creation and maintain resilient business models.

 

Partnering with industry leaders in automotive, machinery and equipment, metals and advanced materials, and industrial technology, we design and execute high-impact strategic projects. With deep sector roots and an entrepreneurial mindset, we seamlessly integrate transactional and transformative consulting to drive sustainable growth and operational excellence. Our approach is borne out by a proven track record of delivering outstanding results.

 

We deliver tangible results and lasting transformation by:

 

  • aligning strategy, M&A, and transformation to maximize shareholder value;
  • enhancing operational agility to ensure resilience; and
  • executing rapid, high-impact transformation programs with clear financial results

Our industry expertise

Aerospace & Defence 
Automotive & Commercial Vehicles
Chemicals 
Engineering & Industrial Services 
Industrial Machinery & Technology 
Industrial & Construction Materials 
Packaging, Recycling & Circular Economy 
Energy & Infrastructure Equipment 

What's new?Latest updates in Industrials and Automotive

Insight
Study
November 2025
Stresstest Liquidity: Building Resilience & Maximizing Cash Flow with a Proactive Steering Model
Today, companies are increasingly exposed to unforeseen risks – ranging from physical supply shortages and cyberattacks to geopolitical trade conflicts. This volatility directly impacts supply chains and can severely affect financial stability. However, our latest simulation shows that preparation is the key differentiator: With a forward-looking steering model and enhanced transparency, cash positions in crisis scenarios can be improved by more than 100%. To secure long-term competitiveness and liquidity, companies must implement preventive measures spanning from strategic planning to operational interventions like an inbound freeze.
Insight
Brochure
November 2025
Industrial Tech and Automation M&A
Industrial Tech and Automation are entering a new growth cycle, fueling increased investment and portfolio realignment among international buyers. Sector leaders are building a diverse ecosystem of digital and automation solutions – from advanced sensors and motion control to industrial software and robotics. This report examines how M&A is accelerating this shift, spotlighting the latest themes, multiples, and transaction momentum.
Insight
Brochure
October 2025
M&A Industry Snapshot: Swimming pool
We are committed to delivering actionable insights and thought leadership that empower businesses to navigate the evolving Swimming pool landscape. This spotlight explores the transformative role of M&A in the sector, highlighting current trends, a standout deal with recent transactions, sector valuation multiples, and our strong track record.

STUDYValue creation

Our study provides insights into the success factors of leading industrial companies in Europe. It is based on an analysis of 333 European companies across nine different sub-sectors, illustrating how companies have achieved top performance in recent years despite challenging market conditions, while competitors struggled to maintain their performance.

X"Our study of more than 300 European industrials reveals: Top performers drive value by integrating strategy, M&A, and transformation."

Dr. Wolfram Römhild, Managing Director at Fortlane Partners

DealsTransactions that we successfully helped to complete

We have successfully advised our clients in numerous industrial and automotive transactions. With over 300 international sell-side and buy-side transactions totaling in excess of 15 billion euros in the last ten years alone, Fortlane Partners is one of the most successful mid-market M&A firms. This success is founded on our sector expertise and excellent process management, valued by financial investors and corporate clients alike.

contact the teamMeet our experts in Industrials and Automotive

Christian Muthler
Managing Director
Sell-Side Advisory, Buy-Side Advisory, Industrials and Automotive, Mobility, Transportation, and Infrastructure
Dr. Wolfram Römhild
Managing Director
Strategy and Growth, Performance Improvement, Interim and Program Management, Carve-out and PMI, Industrials and Automotive
Dr. Gerrit Schütte
Managing Director
Due Diligence, Value Creation and Exit Readiness, Portfolio Strategy and Buy & Build, Principal Investors and Private Equity, Industrials and Automotive
Gerwin Weidl
Managing Director
Sell-Side Advisory, Buy-Side Advisory, Industrials and Automotive
Markus Rosen
Director
Buy-Side Advisory, Sell-Side Advisory, Industrials and Automotive, Consumer Goods and Retail
Matthias Stötter
Director
Sell-Side Advisory, Buy-Side Advisory, Portfolio Strategy and Buy & Build, Healthcare and Life Sciences, Industrials and Automotive
Filippo Cerrone
Partner
Due Diligence, Value Creation and Exit Readiness, Principal Investors and Private Equity, Industrials and Automotive, Healthcare and Life Sciences
Felix von Obernitz
Partner
Value Creation and Exit Readiness, Carve-out and PMI, Strategy and Growth, Principal Investors and Private Equity, Industrials and Automotive
David Oesterschlink
Partner
Due Diligence, Portfolio Strategy and Buy & Build, Principal Investors and Private Equity, Industrials and Automotive

Ready for tomorrow?Get in touch and see how our team can help you.