The material triple is complete: Forterro acquires Klaes and becomes all-round software supplier for the window sector

Future-oriented strategy for digitalization in the window frame industry

Klaes continues its growth path: the globally leading software specialist for wood and plastic solutions in the window and door sector is opening a new, future-oriented chapter and becoming part of Forterro. After the European software supplier Forterro literally got its foot in the door of the sector last year with the acquisition of Orgadata and established the “Forterro Windows & Doors” business unit, the next milestone now follows with Klaes.

From left to right: Bernd Hillbrands (Managing Director, Windows & Doors Line of Business, Forterro), Miriam Berzen (Managing Director Klaes), Lars Klaes (Managing Director Klaes) and Marcus Pannier (President, Forterro) after the signing that makes Klaes part of Forterro. Photo: Klaes

Klaes is a true pioneer in the industry: since its founding in 1983, the family-run company has developed from a one-man business to a leading global provider of software solutions for windows, doors, facades and conservatories and today operates in more than 50 countries. With digital tools such as the ERP solution Klaes premium, the flexible production control e-prod and the highly specialized 3D solutions for facade construction, Klaes is represented in all areas of the industry. The software company from Bad Neuenahr-Ahrweiler thus ensures that companies of all sizes remain efficient and competitive.

Miriam Berzen, managing director at Klaes, sees joining Forterro as the beginning of a new era of clout: “Joining Forterro marks an exciting new chapter for Klaes. For more than four decades, our mission has been to develop innovative and reliable solutions that help manufacturers in the window and door industry remain competitive and ready for the future. We gain the clout and resources of a European market leader, while maintaining the passion and customer focus that have characterized us since our founding in 1983.”

With the acquisition of Klaes, Forterro is consistently continuing its impressive expansion in the window frame industry. While leading software Logikal (formerly Orgadata) remains the standard in the aluminum segment, Klaes brings extensive expertise in PVC and wood to Forterro. The former BM Group, strong in the UK and Irish markets, complements the portfolio with specialized software solutions in the residential segment.

The strategy behind this move is clear: Forterro is positioning itself as a leading, material-independent partner for the window and door sector, uniting one of the most powerful, cross-material portfolios on the market. By combining complementary competencies in aluminum, plastic and wood, the group now covers the entire value chain - from configuration and estimation to production and assembly. This integrated approach enables manufacturers of all sizes to streamline processes, increase efficiency and noticeably accelerate their digital transformation. At the same time, Forterro is strengthening its position in software solutions for craft and industrial production in Europe.

The goal is to make Klaes products even more powerful. Together, the partners will invest heavily in cloud platforms and AI-driven innovations to accelerate digital transformation in craft and industry. By joining forces within the “Windows & Doors” division, innovations in areas such as production automation and data analytics can be brought to market significantly faster.

Klaes will continue to operate as a strong, independent brand name within the business unit. For users, this move primarily means future security: they now benefit from a global network, shared infrastructure and additional technological expertise for future market requirements.

Dean Forbes, CEO of Forterro, highlights the strategic impact: “With Orgadata, the BM Group and now Klaes under one roof, Forterro supports all major materials and manufacturing processes in the industry. With intelligent, increasingly AI-supported solutions, we are helping manufacturers digitize their processes faster and more effectively than ever before.”

The contracts for the Klaes acquisition have already been signed; completion is expected after the usual regulatory approvals in the second quarter of this year.