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Farmtech takes a new path: Merger with a strong Austrian consortium

Ljutomer, 10 March 2025 – Farmtech, the renowned agricultural machinery manufacturer from Ljutomer, Slovenia, is taking a decisive step into the future. From 1 February 2025, Farmtech d.o.o. will operate as an independent company and will be part of a strong Austrian consortium.

This is more than just a strategic move – it is a milestone in the brand’s history. Farmtech remains committed to its passion for innovation in agricultural technology, while benefiting from new synergies within the consortium.

Growth through new synergies

The new owner, an Austrian consortium, has recognised Farmtech’s potential and is opening many new opportunities. In addition to fresh ideas, the consortium brings capital and valuable expertise. With optimised production capacities and strengthened synergies, Farmtech is now in the best possible position for growth and further development. According to Heinz Leitner, Co-Managing Director of Farmtech, the company’s strategy remains unchanged despite the new ownership structure. Farmtech will continue to operate as a full-liner for tractor-drawn transport vehicles. CEO Günther Pirker emphasises that Farmtech remains synonymous with quality, reliability and partnership. The business model remains unchanged and innovation and advanced solutions in agricultural technology will continue to be developed.

Production in Ljutomer until 2026

According to the transition plan, production in Ljutomer will continue until mid-2026. After that, production will be gradually transferred to a new site in Austria, which has already been finalised and is partly owned by the consortium. In the future, the Ljutomer plant will be dedicated exclusively to the production of environmental technology equipment for the former parent company, Komptech GmbH. As part of this transition, the production company in Ljutomer was renamed Komptech d.o.o. on 1 February. This restructuring will enable Komptech to focus even more on innovative solutions for waste recycling and biomass processing. As part of the reorganisation, the company will gradually withdraw from the agricultural machinery business.

Strategic advantages through close collaboration

A key factor in the new structure is the close cooperation with consortium partner Brantner. Hans Brantner, owner of Brantner Fahrzeugbau GmbH, emphasises that Brantner will act primarily as a manufacturing partner for Farmtech. This partnership will not only optimise production but also create real added value for both companies. Investments in the Laa an der Thaya site will enable a sustainable expansion of production capacity with the aim of manufacturing certain Farmtech products directly in Austria soon. This step will increase efficiency and further strengthen cooperation and joint production efforts.

Consistent implementation of a two-brand strategy

The cooperation between Farmtech and Brantner is not about merging brands, but about a clear two-brand strategy. Pirker emphasises that there will be no brand consolidation. Both brands will remain independent, while synergies in sourcing and production will be exploited. Despite potential overlaps in the transport technology sector, the two brands have distinct product portfolios and will continue to operate separately in the market. An additional benefit of the new structure is the expansion of the distribution network through the consortium. Martin Gahleitner, owner and managing director of HAMA Trucks, adds that the company will continue to work with existing distribution partners, but will also use HAMA’s extensive dealer network to drive further growth.

Future vision and strategic goals

Farmtech has ambitious plans for the coming years. By joining the Austrian consortium and restructuring, the company is not only gaining strategic advantages but also opening long-term growth opportunities. Hans Brantner says the new corporate structure has laid a solid foundation for future expansion – and this is just the beginning. A particular focus will be on expanding the product portfolio, particularly in slurry technology, where Farmtech has a unique position. However, the company recognises that there is still a long way to go and will continue to evaluate where and how it can grow further. One of the highlights of 2025 will be Farmtech’s presence at Agritechnica, where the company will unveil exciting new products. Günther Pirker concludes: “We are eager to showcase our innovations and look forward to further developing our vision in the coming years.”

Listen to the LANDWIRT interview (DE):

Günther Pirker, Managing Director at Farmtech, with three of the five new partners (from left): Martin Gahleitner, Heinz Leitner and Hans Brantner (right).

About Farmtech

Farmtech is one of Europe’s leading agricultural machinery manufacturers, renowned for its high-quality products, innovative solutions and strong partnerships with customers. With more than 70 years of experience, the company develops efficient and sustainable solutions for agricultural technology.

After leaving the Komptech Group, Farmtech is now an independent company owned by five new shareholders:

– Hans Brantner, owner of Brantner Fahrzeugbau GmbH,
– Heinz Leitner, former managing director of the Komptech Group, currently active in several companies and co-managing director of Farmtech,
– Martin Gahleitner, owner and managing director of HAMA Trucks,
– Josef Heissenberger & Harald Blochberger of TCS Umwelttechnik, who bring expertise in forestry, environmental and agricultural technology.

hb-brantner.at

hama.carix.de

tcs-umwelttechnik.at