AXIO Capital structures an MBO on the ONIS group

Founded at Lambesc (13) in 1979, Onis designs, assembles and markets rapid blinding (aka isolation) systems for absolute separation between the upstream and downstream sections of industrial piping. These blinding devices enable ONIS’s customers, industrialists with complex processes, to increase the safety and efficiency of their facilities while at the same time reducing their environmental impact thanks to the elimination of residual leaks. Attracted by the relevance of this value proposition and by the differentiation of ONIS products, which can address various complex use cases (large diameters, temperature and pressure conditions, etc.), Axio Capital quickly expressed its interest in the process led by Trianon CF.

True to its culture as arranger of deals, AXIO now holds nearly half the share capital after the deal. For his part, Etienne de Bettignies has subscribed to nearly 30% of the shares. The remainder is held by a team of 6 executives, as well as Serge Bonnefoi, who has reinvested some of his sale proceeds

At the instigation of Serge Bonnefoi, Naxicap and CM Equity, who had taken over the group through a buy-in in 2013, significant structuring work has been done in recent years. This has been achieved in human terms through several structuring recruitments, in commercial terms with the opening of offices abroad, and in industrial terms with the move to a new production site.

This new equity structure has given the group new impetus. Its growth plan is now underpinned by (i) continuing the global expansion of Onis, (ii) seizing opportunities on new growth markets (hydrogen, CO² capture) and (iii) intensifying sales of related products and services.