ARRI To Divest Global Rental Operations In Management Buy-Out

ARRI is carving out its global rental operations in Europe, the United Kingdom and North America through a management buy-out backed by H2 Equity Partners, while retaining Illumination Dynamics.

The move separates ARRI’s manufacturing activities from its rental arm to eliminate a structural conflict of interest and sharpen the company’s focus on core technology.

The transaction is a planned element of ARRI's long-term strategy and will allow the manufacturer to concentrate on the development, production and commercialisation of innovative camera, lighting and software-based technologies, reinforcing its role as an independent, trusted partner to the media and entertainment sector. Illumination Dynamics remains within ARRI and is not part of the deal.

"This transaction is a milestone in ARRI's strategic transformation and future positioning," said Thomas Riedel, owner of ARRI as well as founder and owner of Riedel Communications and the Riedel Group. "It enables us to direct our investments even more specifically toward the further development of our technologies and new growth areas. At the same time, it allows the rental business to continue to develop independently and to unlock additional market potential."

The separation will create clearer market roles for both businesses. ARRI will double down on its technology partner positioning, while the standalone rental company will be free to grow its market presence independently. Both organisations intend to maintain a close working relationship post-closing, with ARRI continuing to serve rental companies as a technology partner and to benefit from user feedback channelled directly into product development.

The MBO is being led by ARRI Rental’s existing UK-based leadership team of Dana Harrison, Russell Allen and Tamim Essaji, in partnership with H2 Equity Partners. The arrangement preserves leadership continuity, customer relationships and operational know-how by keeping the business with the executives who have helped build it.

H2 Equity Partners brings deep experience in growing mid-sized firms and executing carve-outs and management buy-outs. The investor follows a long-term, entrepreneurial approach, partnering closely with management teams to support sustainable expansion.

Under the new structure, Dana Harrison and Andy Shipsides will continue to lead their respective regions, safeguarding long-term client relationships and day-to-day continuity. Harrison will also become CEO of the global rental business.

"For myself and the team, this is far more than a change of ownership; it's a commitment. We know the business, our customers, and our craft, and through this management buy-out we're taking ownership of its future. ARRI Rental has built something exceptional over many years, and we’re proud to carry it forward as an independent company. Our customers will see the same teams, the same standards, and the same dedication they have always relied on, but now with the focus and freedom of a business that’s ours to grow. With H2 Equity Partners as our partners, we are exceptionally well placed to invest, expand into new markets and deepen the relationships that define us. We are also pleased to continue working closely with ARRI as our technology partner."

"ARRI Rental has a strong market position, excellent customer relationships and a highly qualified team. The transaction is an excellent fit with our investment strategy. Together with the existing management team, we intend to continue the company's successful development and unlock additional growth opportunities. At the same time, we look forward to continuing our close collaboration with ARRI as a leading technology partner to the industry," said Patrick Kalverboer, Managing Partner of H2 Equity Partners.

Following a customary transition period, the standalone rental group will adopt a new brand. Completion is expected after all agreed closing conditions have been met. Financial terms have not been disclosed.

www.arri.com