The German process technology company banke GmbH from Taufkirchen (Vils), a supplier to the international brewing industry, filed for insolvency on 14 March. The Landshut District Court appointed Daniel Barth from the law firm Pluta as provisional insolvency administrator, who has since confirmed the continuation of operations.
Founded in 2006, banke GmbH is known for its engineering solutions for breweries and claims to serve many renowned clients worldwide. The company is specialized in modernization solutions that enhance energy efficiency and process optimization in existing brewing systems. It also delivers turnkey breweries, brewhouses like its compact Sud Sixty Six, and advanced process units for late and dry hopping, dealcoholization, beer filtration, and cleaning.
According to Pluta, the company currently employs 31 people, whose salaries are secured for three months through insolvency funds. Business operations and ongoing client projects will continue without interruption during the proceedings.
The main reasons for the insolvency filing were a combination of postponed orders due to the poor economic situation, significant cost increases in ongoing projects, and a generally weak investment climate.
Friedrich Banke, formerly development director at Steinecker (Krones Group) and founder and managing director of the company, emphasized the need for a financial backer: “We now need an investor who will take over our operations. Banke has a good customer base and a strong international presence.” He is being supported in the investor search by M&A consultant Dr. Michael Saatmann from INTRION Gesellschaft für Managementberatung mbH.
Daniel Barth confirmed that the company holds numerous patents and described banke GmbH as a technologically advanced operation, expressing confidence in the ongoing investor search: “We have begun the process and are optimistic about finding a suitable partner.”
The firm’s insolvency follows a number of internal changes, including the appointment of Valentin Reuber as head of sales in early 2025, succeeding Johann Brandstetter. In 2020, Banke ended its cooperation with the engineering firm Braukon and brought several former partners into the company.
