Contour Design Boosts Portfolio with Acquisition of Cherry SE's Active Key Business
Germany, Thursday, 8 May 2025.
Contour Design’s acquisition of Cherry SE’s Active Key business strengthens its presence in the European electronics industry, focusing on healthcare and industrial sectors with innovative input solutions.
Strategic Acquisition Details
In a significant move announced on May 8, 2025, Contour Design has secured a definitive agreement to acquire the Active Key business from Cherry SE for EUR 21 million [3]. The transaction structure includes both fixed cash payments and a variable earn-out arrangement tied to financial performance targets [3]. The deal, which encompasses all relevant employees and assets, is expected to reach completion by the end of May 2025, pending regulatory approvals [1][3].
Enhanced Market Position
Active Key, established in 2005 and previously acquired by Cherry SE in 2021, has built a strong reputation in specialized keyboard and mice manufacturing, particularly for environments demanding high standards of cleanliness, durability, and reliability [1][3]. The acquisition significantly expands Contour Design’s presence in the healthcare and industrial sectors, with the company identifying substantial growth opportunities across Germany, the USA, Europe, and the Middle East [3]. Cherry SE, which currently employs approximately 400 people across its global operations, will transfer its expertise in specialized input devices to Contour Design’s portfolio [5].
Leadership Perspectives
Erik Stannow, Chairman of the Board at Contour Design, describes the acquisition as ‘a pivotal moment’ that aligns with the company’s mission to enhance workplace health and safety [1]. Kenneth Nielsen, CEO of Contour Design, emphasizes the strategic fit, stating that the acquisition will accelerate innovation and broaden their reach, particularly in Europe, North America, and the Middle East [1]. From Cherry SE’s perspective, CEO Oliver Kaltner confirms that ‘Contour Design is the ideal strategic partner to take over this business and lead it to further growth’ [3].
Future Integration Plans
Contour Design plans to maintain its focus on core ergonomic product lines while introducing Active Key as a complementary brand within its portfolio [1]. The company has outlined intentions to invest in sales, marketing, and product development to strengthen its position in healthcare, industrial, and public sectors [3]. This strategic integration comes at a particularly opportune time, as German healthcare facilities prepare for mandatory connection to the Telematikinfrastruktur (TI) from July 1, 2025 [5], positioning the combined entity to better serve the evolving needs of the healthcare sector.