The previously announced acquisition of GF Machining Solutions, a division of Georg Fischer AG, by UNITED GRINDING Group has now been finalized. This strategic move combines two major players in precision machining under a new name: UNITED MACHINING SOLUTIONS. The combined entity now operates with annual sales exceeding USD 1.5 billion, positioning it among the top global manufacturers of machine tools.
Following the acquisition, the new company will maintain its headquarters in Bern, Switzerland, and employ approximately 5,000 people across more than 50 locations worldwide. The integration brings the total number of brands under its umbrella to 15.
Stephan Nell, CEO of both the original UNITED GRINDING Group and now UNITED MACHINING SOLUTIONS, emphasized the long-standing vision to bring the two companies together. According to Nell, the merger received full backing from shareholders Rosmarie and Martin Ebner, who approved a capital increase to support the acquisition. Nell noted that few companies align as naturally as these two—across products, global presence, quality standards, and corporate culture.
Fred Gaegauf, Chairman of UNITED GRINDING Group’s board, called the merger a milestone in the Swiss machine tool industry, creating a strong national and global player. The merger forms a powerful organization with a broad product lineup, deep technological know-how, and extensive global reach. Ivan Filisetti, CEO of GF Machining Solutions and now a member of the executive team at UNITED MACHINING SOLUTIONS, said the integration is smooth due to the complementarity of their product lines. As companies rooted in Swiss engineering, both sides share a culture centered on innovation, precision, and digitalization.
The partnership enhances the group’s ability to respond to industry challenges, including evolving standards and increasing regulatory demands. With more than 50 locations worldwide and a customer-focused approach, the new organization is positioned to offer localized service with global consistency.
While UNITED MACHINING SOLUTIONS is the new group name, the individual brands will continue to represent the company to the market. Stephan Nell explained that each brand will retain its unique identity, built over decades of innovation and customer trust.
UNITED MACHINING SOLUTIONS is structured into two core divisions that reflect its comprehensive expertise across the machining sector. The UNITED GRINDING division includes well-established brands such as MÄGERLE, BLOHM, JUNG, STUDER, SCHAUDT, MIKROSA, WALTER, EWAG, and IRPD. These companies are recognized for their specialization in surface and profile grinding, cylindrical grinding, tool machining, and additive manufacturing technologies, offering precision solutions for a wide range of industrial applications.
The second division, UNITED MACHINING, brings together brands like AGIE CHARMILLES, CHARMILLES, MIKRON MILL, LIECHTI, STEP TEC, and SYSTEM 3R. This group focuses on advanced technologies such as electrical discharge machining (EDM), high-speed milling, laser texturing and micro-machining, as well as cutting-edge spindle systems and automation solutions. Together, the two divisions form a powerful combination, covering nearly every aspect of high-precision manufacturing.
The management team for UNITED MACHINING SOLUTIONS brings decades of industry knowledge. Alongside Stephan Nell and Ivan Filisetti, the leadership includes Michael Horn, responsible for Operations and IT, and Heinz Poklekowski, overseeing Finance and Group Services. Each executive brings deep experience from within the organization and the broader industry.
UNITED MACHINING SOLUTIONS will make its official public debut at EMO Hannover, one of the world’s leading trade shows for manufacturing technology, scheduled from September 22–26. Representing all 15 brands, the group plans to unveil eight world-premiere innovations at the event.
With combined revenue of over USD 1.5 billion and a workforce of approximately 5,000, UNITED MACHINING SOLUTIONS stands among the global leaders in advanced machine tool production. Its extensive global footprint ensures close customer support, technological innovation, and manufacturing excellence.
