Groupe SEB, a France-based conglomerate of small appliance manufacturers, has agreed to acquire Wilbur Curtis, the US’s second largest manufacturer of professional coffee equipment.

Founded in 1941, Wilbur Curtis manufactures and markets a wide range of equipment for the preparation of hot and cold beverages, mainly filter coffee and cappuccino machines.

Wilbur Curtis’s total sales have grown to approximately $90 million, and its major customers include coffee roasters, speciality coffee retailers, convenience stores, fast-food chains, hotels and restaurants.

The acquisition is subject to regulatory approval, and is expected to close in February 2019.

Groupe SEB, whose portfolio includes well-known international brands such as All-Clad, Tefal and Krups, has focused on growing its presence in the professional coffee space since acquiring WMF, a German espresso machine manufacturer, in 2016.

Thierry de La Tour d’Artaise, chairman and CEO of Groupe SEB said: “Following the acquisition of WMF in 2016, Groupe SEB confirms its determination to pursue expansion in the professional coffee industry, which offers great development opportunities worldwide.

“As a specialist in filter coffee machines in the US, Wilbur Curtis represents for the group – that is already present on this market with Schaerer and WMF full-automatic espresso machines – a very valuable strategic complement to its product offering and customer portfolio.

“As a result, Groupe SEB becomes one of the leaders in the professional coffee business in the US.”