DC Advisory advises IMA Group on the sale of ATOP to Lichtenberg Capital

Background

• Founded in 1993 and headquartered in Florence, IMA Automation Group (IMA Group) is a leader in the design and production of automatic machines for the processing and packaging of pharmaceutical products, medical devices, food and consumer goods, as well as in the automation of industrial processes
• In 2019, IMA Group acquired a majority stake in ATOP
• ATOP designs and manufactures machines and fully automated lines for the production of stators and rotors for electric motors
• Lichtenberg Capital is an Austrian private equity fund that specializes in supporting medium-sized companies in transitional situations
   

Process

• DC Advisory was engaged as sole financial advisor by IMA Group to provide sell-side M&A advice on the sale of ATOP to Lichtenberg Capital
• DC Advisory leveraged its extensive experience to contribute to several detailed work streams, including running process strategy and bid tactics, assisting with drafting presentations, and co-ordinating due diligence advisors 

Outcome

• In July 2026, IMA Group signed a Sale and Purchase Agreement with Lichtenberg Capital for the sale of ATOP
• The closing of the transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approval
• This transaction demonstrates DC Advisory's ongoing expertise in the Industrials sector and strengthens the firm's track record in advising on machinery and industrial automation businesses, and on complex corporate carve-outs across the automotive and e-mobility value chain