Successful M&A Case: CIMAI’s Strategic Transition

History of CIMAI

In every Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) transaction, there is a story behind the numbers – a narrative of growth, strategic vision, and continuity. The case of CIMAI was no exception.

Founded around 40 years ago, CIMAI has built a solid track record in the sector of chemical products and services for water treatment, serving a vast portfolio of public and private clients – major municipalities, sports facilities, and industries. With a growing presence in international markets, CIMAI has established itself as a reference player. However, like many family-owned businesses, it faced a critical challenge: the lack of succession.

Following a successful restructuring in the post-pandemic period, its sole shareholder decided to pursue new paths outside the sector. It was the right moment to ensure the continuity and sustainable growth of the company – and this is where Yunit Consulting came into action.

The Challenge and the Opportunity

In 2023, Yunit Consulting took on the mandate to sell CIMAI, with the commitment to finding an investor who would not only value its track record and know-how but also ensure the continuity and expansion of the business. The challenge was not just to find a buyer but to find the right partner – one who recognised CIMAI's potential and was strategically aligned with its value proposition.

Thus, in 2024, we captured the attention of CREST, a fund manager with an investment rationale focused on sectoral consolidation. CIMAI represented the ideal partner for its subsidiary ECOCOMPOSITOS, opening new opportunities in a complementary business area: the public swimming pool market niche. This acquisition would allow ECOCOMPOSITOS to expand its presence and strengthen its competitive position.

Success of the Transaction

In June 2024, CIMAI was acquired 100% by ECOCOMPOSITOS, in a transaction structured as an add-on acquisition and managed by the CREST II fund, amounting to €1 million.

This operation represented a strategic opportunity for the buyer, reinforcing its sectoral consolidation capacity and portfolio diversification.

This case reflects Yunit Consulting’s commitment to structuring M&A transactions that create value for all parties involved. From the identification of strategic players to the negotiation of the best solution for both seller and buyer, our approach combines rigorous analysis, strategy, and a privileged network of contacts in the sector.