Know-how transfer for sustainable maritime solutions: Ultrasonic Tech GmbH enters the antifouling industry with the acquisition of HASYTEC Electronics AG

New growth opportunities are emerging for German ultrasonic technologies that prevent biofouling on ships and other surfaces exposed to liquids. Since 1 July 2025, the business operations of HASYTEC Electronics AG – a company specializing in sustainable antifouling technologies – have been part of Ultrasonic Tech GmbH, and thus of the internationally active Erma Tech Group, headquartered in Piraeus.

The Greek investor is planning significant investments, particularly in the advancement of HASYTEC’s innovative ultrasonic technology. Thanks to a strong and established customer base, new markets are to be tapped, and the global use of the technology is expected to grow substantially. The strategic goal: to secure a leading position in the field of sustainable antifouling solutions.

Luther Rechtsanwaltsgesellschaft mbH advised the buyer on this complex transaction under considerable time pressure. Led by Dr. Joachim Heinemann, the Luther team worked closely with all stakeholders to develop an economically viable solution for the insolvent HASYTEC Electronics AG – and succeeded: Business operations were transferred earlier than expected, the majority of jobs were secured, and the Kiel-Wellsee site will continue operations.

Despite challenging circumstances, negotiations with insolvency administrator Christian Krüger proceeded in an extremely constructive manner. Together, a viable concept was developed and unanimously approved by the creditors' meeting on 24 July 2025.

"The Luther team, led by Dr. Joachim Heinemann, played a key role in the swift and successful transfer of HASYTEC Electronics AG," said Dimitris Avdelopoulos of Ultrasonic Tech GmbH. "Trust-based and solution-oriented cooperation between all parties is essential in restructuring processes – and that was especially true in this case."

With this successful transaction, Luther once again underscores its strong interdisciplinary expertise in M&A and corporate restructuring – particularly at the intersection of the maritime industry and future-oriented environmental technologies.

About Ultrasonic Tech GmbH:

Ultrasonic Tech GmbH is part of the Erma Tech Group, an internationally leading manufacturer and supplier of maritime environmental protection equipment, headquartered in Piraeus, Greece. The Erma Tech Group develops and manufactures wastewater treatment systems, drinking water systems, antifouling systems, and ballast water treatment systems for ships. It also provides innovative solutions for decarbonisation and improved energy efficiency in the maritime industry.

About HASYTEC Electronics AG

Since 2016, the award-winning HASYTEC Electronics AG, based in Kiel, Germany, has been developing ultrasonic technologies to prevent deposits on surfaces exposed to liquids. In global shipping, these technologies help reduce CO₂ emissions and prevent the release of heavy metals into marine ecosystems.

For Ultrasonic Tech GmbH:

Luther, Corporate/M&A: Dr. Joachim Heinemann (partner, lead); Jan-Christian Schmid (senior associate); Lida Karra (senior associate); Daniel Hilmer (associate)

Luther, Restructuring & Insolvency: Oliver Köhler (Partner); Artur Winkler (Counsel)

Luther, IP/IT: Dr. Kay Oelschlaegel (Partner); Dominik Menhaj (Senior Associate)

Luther, Employment Law: Dr. Volker Schneider (Partner); Daniel Greger (Senior Associate); Jan Hufert (Associate)

Luther, Capital Markets, Banking & Finance: Volkan Top (Senior Associate)

Luther, Trade and Distribution Law: Dr. Christoph von Burgsdorff, LL.M. (Partner); Christina Göbel (Senior Associate); Luisa Kramer (Associate); Dr. Maximilian Bahnsen (Associate); Marcel Rasche (Associate)