Primat Curtis is strengthening its presence in Brazil through the acquisition of a majority stake in Realtec. The Brazilian company specializes in surface treatments for fastening components, with a particular focus on zinc flake coatings. The transaction is part of the group’s international growth strategy and supports its position in anti-corrosion finishes for fastening systems, mainly serving the automotive sector. Realtec operates two production units and serves a diversified customer base with highly technical treatments. As a result, the acquisition allows Primat Curtis to expand its industrial footprint in South America and increase its exposure to a strategic market.
Moreover, the deal responds to a key industrial need: proximity to customers. According to Alberto Girardi, Commercial and Marketing Director of Primat Curtis, logistics plays a significant role in this business. Orders often have visibility of only 2-3 days and must be completed within 48-72 hours. Therefore, being close to customers’ plants is a decisive competitive factor, both in terms of service quality and operational efficiency. This is particularly relevant in a sector where components such as screws, nuts and bolts enter customers’ production processes before being shipped to final recipients. In addition, shorter transport distances can help reduce the environmental impact linked to logistics.
Brazil also represents an attractive market for future growth. The country offers opportunities in automotive, Oil & Gas and earthmoving, allowing Primat Curtis to diversify its end markets while maintaining fastening systems for the automotive sector as its core business. In addition, the presence of Stellantis’ largest global plant in Minas Gerais confirms the strategic relevance of the region for the automotive supply chain. The acquisition also builds on the group’s previous experience in Brazil through Prosdac, which had already allowed Primat Curtis to test the potential of the local market. As part of the integration process, Prosdac’s activities will be transferred into Realtec’s main plant, with the aim of improving capacity, production flows and local commercial coverage.
Finally, the transaction fits into a broader external growth strategy. In 2023, Primat acquired Curtis Metal Finishing in the United States and Vi.Pi.Effe Pen in Italy, creating an industrial platform across three continents. Today, the group has around 620 employees, €124 million in revenues and 12 plants across Europe, North America and South America. Primat S.p.A. is controlled by Tendercapital and participated by HAT Sicaf. Looking ahead, the group aims to consolidate recent acquisitions, develop industrial synergies and evaluate further M&A opportunities in the region. Therefore, the acquisition of Realtec is not only a local expansion, but also another step in Primat Curtis’ broader plan to strengthen its role as one of the leading global players in high-tech surface treatments for fastening components.
