Schaeffler India acquires fast-growing automotive aftersales B-to-B e-commerce platform Koovers

Schaeffler India Limited (BSE: 505790, NSE: SCHAEFFLER) announced that the Board of Directors has approved the acquisition of 100 percent of the shares of KRSV Innovative Auto Solutions Private Limited (in the following “Koovers”), a Bengaluru-based private limited company offering spare parts solutions to Indian aftermarket workshops via a B-to-B e-commerce platform. This acquisition presents an ideal synergy for Schaeffler’s future aftersales activities in India. It will be a key enabler for the aftermarket ecosystem, including distribution partners and help to play an important role in the fast growing and evolving aftermarket digital landscape.

Schaeffler’s Automotive Aftermarket division supplies components and holistic repair solutions for the automobile spare parts business worldwide and sees itself as an enabler of garages. With an overarching understanding of systems and comprehensive services, Schaeffler supports garages in complex repairs and at the same time contributes to extending the operating life of vehicles.

Founded in 2015, Koovers has established a B-to-B e-commerce platform offering spare parts solutions to aftermarket workshops in India. With revenues of INR 777 million in the financial year 2022-23, the company has a compelling growth story and is one of the fast-growing players in the Indian B-to-B e-commerce market. Koovers supplies to over 7,000 plus workshops and has a portfolio of around 1.8 million parts from various manufacturers. The platform will continue to operate under Koovers brand name.

“We are happy to announce the acquisition of Koovers, a milestone moment for Schaeffler in India. This will be a strategic step to maximize value creation through our repair solutions for all customers. Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket’s ambition has always been to simplify workshop operations with plug and play products and solutions, while building consumer connect. Koovers strongly supports this ambition with its innovative digital offering,” said Mr. Harsha Kadam, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Schaeffler India.

Under the share purchase agreement, Schaeffler India Limited will acquire 100 percent shares of KRSV Innovative Auto Solutions Private Limited for a consideration of approximately INR 1,424 million. The transaction would be completed in third quarter of CY 2023, subject to customary closing conditions. This acquisition will be fully funded by own cash generation.

“This acquisition is in line with Schaeffler India’s strategic initiatives for growth and provides a compelling synergy potential.  With its digital offering, the Koovers B-to-B e-commerce platform enables workshops to easily order spare parts solutions. We welcome the Koovers team to the Schaeffler Group,“ commented Mr. Debasish Satpathy, President Automotive Aftermarket Schaeffler India.

Mr. Sandeep Begur Sheshadri, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder at Koovers said: “Since our foundation eight years ago, we have scaled our business through innovative solutions and offerings. Koovers will expand its market coverage and depth, as well as extend product portfolio across the automotive aftermarket under the ownership of Schaeffler India. We are delighted to be an integral part of Schaeffler India and are committed to create value for all stakeholders.”