Fluidra, a global leader in pool and wellness equipment and connected solutions, has announced a strategic partnership with Aiper, a fast-growing company specialising in cordless robotic pool cleaning technology.
A game-changing partnership to accelerate innovation in cordless pool cleaning
This alliance begins with a $100 million investment, securing Fluidra a 27% stake in Aiper Inc. through a capital increase.
The partnership aims to combine Fluidra's global expertise, industrial capabilities and distribution strength with Aiper's cutting-edge technology and agile direct-to-consumer approach. While adoption of robotic cleaners remains below 25% worldwide despite 30 million pools, the potential for growth through innovation is immense.
Aiper stands out for its smart cordless robotic technology and successful omnichannel presence across e-commerce and major retailers. Fluidra already boasts a comprehensive portfolio of automatic pool cleaning solutions across pressure, suction, in-floor, solar, manual and both corded and cordless robotic cleaners. This partnership allows Fluidra to further strengthen its cordless segment and offer enhanced solutions across professional and retail channels.
With global operations, two R&D centres employing 270 engineers and 2024 revenues of $195 million (+75%), Aiper is a rising tech leader in the industry.
Aiper cleaning robot
The alliance will unfold in two stages:
- Phase one includes the $100 million investment for a 27% stake and the start of collaborative innovation.
- In phase two, Fluidra plans to acquire a majority stake when Aiper exceeds $370 million in revenue with ~15% EBITDA margin.
"We are truly excited about this strategic partnership and initial meaningful minority stake in Aiper with a path to being a majority shareholder. The company's breakthrough innovation, consumer-focused approach and talented team are exactly what we look for in a partner as we shape the future of smart pool cleaning. Together, we are set to provide smarter, more efficient solutions to our broad range of customers worldwide", said Jaime Ramírez, Fluidra's CEO.
"This is an exciting moment for Aiper. Joining forces with Fluidra, a global leader in the industry, is an incredible opportunity to take our innovation and growth to the next level. We share a passion for pushing the boundaries of intelligent pool cleaning, and together, we are set to redefine what is possible. With Fluidra's global reach and capabilities, we are even more confident in our ability to deliver smarter, more efficient pool cleaning solutions. I'm incredibly excited for what lies ahead.", said Richard Wang, Aiper's Founder and CEO.