Chargeurs PCC Fashion Technologies (CFT PCC) has signed a binding agreement to acquire two strategic business units of the Swiss company Cilander, which announced its closure earlier in 2024.

CFT PCC will acquire the company’s historic factory in Lützelflüh which can trace activities back to 1677 and in recent years has been the cornerstone of advanced finishing activities for demanding markets such as the military, interior design, sports and mobility.

With its Planofil brand, Cilander markets high-performance textile fabrics for outdoor use, particularly in the nautical world, while offering a wide range of finishing options and tailoring other  products to customer specifications.

CFT PCC also plans to acquire the Cilander shirt fabrics business, which mainly comprises the well-known Alumo brand founded by Karl Albrecht in 1941. For over a century, Alumo has been at the forefront of fabrics made from the finest, highest-quality cotton for men’s shirts. The company is the preferred supplier of prestigious tailors and specialised luxury brands worldwide via its highly efficient e-commerce platform.

In addition, Cilander’s fabrics business includes the Eugster & Huber and Brennet brands, as well as Swiss Ghutra, specialising in exclusive fabrics and headpieces for a high-end clientele in the Middle East.

When completed, the acquisition will strengthen the development capabilities of CFT PCC, today a leader in interlinings for the garment industry, as well as opening doors to new and particularly demanding niche markets. Synergies will enhance cross-selling opportunities and stimulate the development of innovative new collections.

“Acquiring the strategic assets and most iconic brands of Cilander will mark a pivotal moment for our business,” said Gianluca Tanzi, managing director of CFT PCC. “The alliance of our French heritage with Cilander’s storied Swiss legacy will redefine the standards of luxury, quality, innovation, performance and distribution in the textile industry. We look forward to seizing these new growth opportunities."

Chargeurs is a diversified international holding company active in nearly 100 countries with around 2,300 employees. Its portfolio of assets is organised into two strategic business segments –

Technologies and Luxury. It achieved revenues of €653.2 million in 2023.

www.chargeurs-pcc.com

www.cilander.com