Lectra Takes Equity Stake in Caron Technology

Lectra said it acquired a 70 percent equity stake in Caron Technology this past August for 1.9 million euros, or $2.2 million, which included an option to increase its stake to 100 percent by 2029. As a result, Lectra said it will now be able to offer its customers solutions developed by Caron Technology, 'providing an even more comprehensive response to cutting room productivity and performance challenges.' Lectra provides PLM and other technologies to the fashion apparel industry. Caron Technology, an Italian company founded in 1993, designs and manufactures automated preparation systems and machinery as well as software used in fashion apparel, furniture and technical textile industries. Both companies have worked together for close to 20 years. Lectra said in a statement that the equity stake 'reflects the two companies' shared commitment to build on their cooperation over the long term and to support their future growth jointly.' The acquisition is a perfect fit for Lectra. Caron Technology designs and assembles various preparation systems that operate before the cutting process. This includes fabric spreaders, feeders, roll loaders, spreading tables and related software. 'Upstream of the cutting process, fabric spreading and feeding are a strategic step in the production process, as the quality and consistency of these operations have a direct impact on cutting room productivity,' Lectra said. Giulio Gallo, CEO of Caron Technology, described the equity stake as a new milestone and the result of many years of collaboration with Lectra. 'We share the same commitment towards innovation, quality, and customer service. Together, we will be able to accelerate the development of our solutions and expand their reach to a greater number of manufacturers,' Gallo said. Maximilien Abadie, deputy CEO of Lectra, described Caron Technology as a trusted partner. 'This strengthened alliance reinforces our offering by combining it with recognized know-how in cutting-room preparation with Caron Technology's equipment perfectly complementing our product portfolio and expertise in building the connected cutting room of the future,' Abadie said. Late last month, Lectra announced an increase in the maximum allocation for its share buyback mandate with Natixis from 20 million euros, or $23.2 million, to 25 million euros, or $29 million, expanding on the program the company launched on May 11, 2026, under authorization from its April shareholders' meeting. Having already acquired 16.12 million euros, or $18.7 million, worth of its own shares prior to the decision, the company said it extended the mandate to allow for continued repurchases that are in compliance with regulatory reporting standards.