Recaro Automotive, the renowned German seat manufacturer, has secured its financial future following a bankruptcy filing in July. The company has been rescued by Proma Group, an Italian parts supplier specialising in automotive components. This deal guarantees Recaro’s revival, with plans to relaunch in January 2025.
As part of the agreement, Recaro’s seat manufacturing will shift from Germany to Italy, ensuring production resumes next year. Aftermarket seat availability is also expected to restart, a major relief for customers and automakers relying on Recaro’s high-quality reputation.
Proma Group has committed to retaining key Recaro employees, particularly from the sales and technology departments, to maintain continuity. This will help preserve the company’s expertise and customer relationships during the transition.
While production in Europe will be restructured, Recaro’s operations in North America and Japan will continue as usual. Proma’s investment aims to streamline the process, allowing for a smooth shift in ownership. Luca Pino, Proma Group CEO, highlighted that the partnership would combine German industrial technology with Italian manufacturing excellence to bring innovative premium seating products to the market.
Proma, which employs over 5,000 people globally, also manufactures automotive components, including seat structures and body assemblies. Recaro’s financial struggles had earlier affected production at Ineos Automotive, contributing to delays in the Grenadier SUV and Quartermaster pickup due to seat shortages. Production at Ineos will resume as Recaro comes back online.
