ARRI Sells Claypaky
ARRI announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its subsidiary Claypaky to new strategic owner EK Inc. Operating one of the most advanced lighting production and development facilities in the industry, EK Inc. offers a strong foundation for Claypaky, which is a world-renowned brand recognized globally as the provider of choice in the high-end professional entertainment lighting market.
“This decision is part of our strategic realignment as we focus more strongly on our core business,” says Chris Richter, Managing Director of ARRI. “Clearly recognizing Claypaky’s potential, it was important to us to find a new owner who pursues next level growth based on a deep understanding of the market and a long-term strategic vision—for both Claypaky and its customers.”
“Our collaboration with ARRI has been a valuable and rewarding journey,” remarks Marcus Graser, CEO of Claypaky. “We part ways with sincere appreciation—especially for the insights gained from ARRI’s deep expertise in the motion picture industry, which will continue to influence our path forward. At the same time, we look forward to the opportunities new ownership brings. We are certain to benefit from EK’s strong development, manufacturing, and supply 2 chain capabilities which could open new doors in terms of new product development, scalability, and global market access.”
Raymond Chen, CEO of EK Inc. adds: “The acquisition of Claypaky, along with its theatrical brand ADB, is a strategic investment that significantly enriches our portfolio. Claypaky, a nearly 50-year-old brand rooted in Italian design and globally recognized for its innovation, strengthens therefore our global presence, especially in the European market. This acquisition marks the next step in our evolution. With our combined manufacturing expertise, innovative spirit, and expanded industrial backbone, we are well-positioned to continue shaping the future of entertainment lighting worldwide."
More than just a change in ownership, the acquisition highlights all three parties’ commitment to their primary markets—along with a renewed focus on innovation, operational excellence, adaptability, and long-term resilience. While details of the integration between Claypaky and EK Inc. are still to be defined, Claypaky will retain its headquarters and core competences in R&D and Operations in Italy, ensuring flexibility and continued local value creation in the face of global challenges. The transaction is expected to close in the coming months, subject to customary regulatory approvals.
About ARRI:
“Inspiring images. Since 1917.” ARRI is a global player within the motion picture and live entertainment industries, employing around 1,500 staff worldwide. Named after its founders August Arnold and Robert Richter, ARRI was established in Munich, Germany, where the headquarters is still located today. Other subsidiaries are in Europe, North and South America, Asia, and Australia.
The ARRI Group consists of the business units Camera Systems, Lighting, and Rental, as well as the subsidiary Claypaky, all dedicated to synergizing creativity and future technologies to enhance moving images and live events. ARRI is a leading designer and manufacturer with a worldwide distribution and service network. The product portfolio includes digital cameras, lenses, lighting fixtures, apps, and accessories. ARRI also offers first-class services through ARRI Rental’s provision of both standard and exclusive camera, lighting, and grip packages to professional productions around the world. ARRI’s virtual production and innovative workflows solutions boost efficiency for a broad range of studio operators, producers, and corporations. Claypaky provides audiences with cutting-edge live entertainment and stage lighting products.
In recognition of its innovative contributions to the film and television industries, ARRI has been honored with 20 Scientific and Technical Awards from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences and six Engineering Emmys from the Television Academy and the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. 3
For more information, visit www.arri.com
About Claypaky:
Claypaky is a worldwide reference brand in the professional lighting industry. Claypaky lights are used in top productions in the theatre, television, live events, the fashion world, fairs and exhibitions, and are installed in the best clubs, bars, theme parks, shops, conference rooms and architectural environments.
For more information, visit www.claypaky.com
For more information on EK Inc. visit eklights.com.