Rieter Announces New Group Structure Ahead Of Barmag Division Acquisition

Rieter has announced a significant organizational restructuring in preparation for its planned acquisition of OC Oerlikon’s Barmag Division, a move that will position the company as the world’s leading system provider for both natural and man-made fibers. The acquisition is expected to receive regulatory approvals and close in the fourth quarter of 2025.

Effective January 1, 2026, Rieter will implement a new Group structure designed to boost agility, strengthen customer focus and enhance technology leadership.

Key Organizational Changes

Merger of Machines & Systems and After Sales Divisions
These units will combine to form the new Short-Staple Fiber Division, to be led by Alexander Özbahadir. The merger aims to drive synergies across sales and service operations and improve customer proximity with stronger regional alignment.

New Components and Technology Division
Roger Albrecht will head this division, tasked with accelerating technology development, strengthening innovation, and expanding Rieter’s components business. The reorganization will deepen collaboration with component brands including Accotex, Bräcker, Graf, Novibra, Suessen, SSM and Temco.

Leadership Transition
Serge Entleitner will step down from the Group Executive Committee on December 31, 2025, after playing a key role in developing the Components Division. He will continue to support the company on various projects until retiring in 2027.

Integration of Man-Made Fiber Business
Upon completion of the Barmag acquisition, the Man-Made Fiber Division will formally join the Rieter Group. Georg Stausberg will continue to lead the division and will join the Group Executive Committee, reporting to CEO Thomas Oetterli.

New Executive Board (as of January 1, 2026)

• Thomas Oetterli, Chief Executive Officer
• Oliver Streuli, Chief Financial Officer
• Emmanuelle Gmür, Chief Human Resources Officer
• Alexander Özbahadir, Head of Short-Staple Fiber Division
• Georg Stausberg (post-closing), Head of Man-Made Fiber Division
• Roger Albrecht, Head of Components and Technology Division

In response to the continued softness in global markets, Rieter will introduce further cost-reduction initiatives, including capacity adjustments, supply chain simplification, and streamlining of overheads. The company expects one-off restructuring costs of CHF 30–35 million, with projected annual savings of just under CHF 30 million.