It is now clear; the renowned Heilbronn-based audio technology specialist beyerdynamic is being sold to the Chinese manufacturer Cosonic Intelligent. The traditional brand is changing hands for around 122 million euros. The takeover is subject to the proviso that the company headquarters in Heilbronn, employment contracts and co-determination rights remain unchanged – a step with opportunities and challenges.
- Takeover price approx. €122 million
- Buyer: Cosonic Intelligent, former OEM manufacturer
- Heilbronn site and contracts to remain untouched
- Openness among employees – concerns, but also optimism
“Handmade in Heilbronn” as a signal for the future
Cosonic, previously active primarily as a contract manufacturer, is taking the strategic step of establishing a high-quality brand with a strong presence in Europe and North America. The Heilbronn site will be retained, including the 375 employees at the three sites (Heilbronn, USA, China) and existing collective agreements and works agreements.
Development, production and logistics processes will continue to be carried out in Germany. “The buyer is very interested in the location and production in Heilbronn, as this is precisely what makes Beyerdynamic unique – “Hand made in Heilbronn / Germany,” Andreas Rapp, Managing Director of Beyerdynamic, confirmed to SWR.
Concerns and opportunities among the workforce
The news triggered mixed reactions. The works council and employees are unsettled, demanding clear assurances about the future of the site and emphasizing their high expectations of the new owner.
Nevertheless, many employees are excited about the prospects, especially if Cosonic actually invests and creates potential for innovation:
“At first I was a bit shocked … but (…) this is actually a huge opportunity and I’m motivated to continue taking the next steps with the company.”
Historical foundation and market position
Founded in Berlin in 1924, beyerdynamic has been based in Heilbronn since 1948 and enjoys a worldwide reputation for its studio headphones (DT 770, 880, 990) as well as microphones and conference solutions.
The takeover still requires official approval – according to Managing Director Andreas Rapp, the closing date could be in three to five months. The deal is in line with the ongoing trend of Chinese investments in German technology companies – despite growing political sensitivity towards such takeovers.
Conclusion
The sale of beyerdynamic to Cosonic Intelligent for around € 122 million represents a turning point. The continuity of the site in Heilbronn, existing employment contracts and production processes are decisive security factors. At the same time, new opportunities are opening up: more investment, expansion of the brand and access to global markets. Official approval is expected in a few months. Consumers are unlikely to notice any difference in the price or availability of the products – but future developments remain exciting to watch, particularly with regard to new product lines and strategic partnerships.
Interested parties should look out for the statement from beyerdynamic and Cosonic and the potential impact on future product generations.
