Success Story: Werbas KSR
What does Werbas KSR do?
Werbas KSR develops automotive software solutions tailored to the needs of workshops, helping them to become more efficient through smart networking. Their software is modular, allowing garages to create an individual system with numerous interfaces and functions. Werbas offers a web-based solution called Werbas.blue that allows users to access numerous functions via mobile devices, while the data remains securely on the workshop’s server. They offer solutions for various workshop types, with options ranging from on-premises to cloud-based. Werbas also provides modules that help with standard tasks such as tire changes and vehicle inspections.
Visit https://werbas-ksr.com/
"GENII addressed employees’ concerns of becoming part of the GENII group through on-site interactions and an open-door policy with lots of interactions. I was stunned to see my colleagues being converted into ardent supporters of the new group structure."
Dear Dennis, tell us about the history of your company prior to becoming a GENII company?
Founded in 1985 as DEKRA data in Stuttgart the company developed the first workshop management system in Germany on a Windows PC. The company grew quickly based on an increased need to integrate technology into the daily life of workshops. Ownership structures have changes several times and the company was listed at the Munich stock exchange at one point in time. In 2021 the company was bought by a private equity investor that brought me on board as CEO. In 2024 the GENII Software Group acquired Werbas and made the merger with KSR possible.
Why did the owner of Werbas KSR, a professional private equity firm, choose GENII as an exit channel?
GENII with its long term vision on the market was able to deliver the best value to the owners. Their approach of maintaining brand and management continuity while providing resources and investment for scaling aligns well with the needs of growing software businesses like Werbas KSR.
The professional and efficient transaction process further demonstrated GENII’s expertise in managing acquisitions in the software industry.
How did you go about onboarding your company and employees?
The onboarding process for Werbas KSR and its employees into GENII was characterized by a smooth transition, with minimal integration to preserve entrepreneurial freedom. This approach aligns with GENII’s philosophy of allowing acquired companies to maintain their unique identity and operational autonomy. By implementing a light-touch integration strategy, GENII ensured that Werbas KSR could continue to operate effectively without disruption to its core business or company culture.
How do you experience your own autonomy and go-to-market freedom?
At GENII, we experience a high degree of autonomy and go-to-market freedom due to the group’s entrepreneurial setup, which avoids rigid structures. Each company within GENII operates as a local hero, maintaining its unique identity and decision-making authority. This structure allows us to develop our business independently while benefiting from GENII’s extensive resources and support. Additionally, being part of the GENII network provides access to a vast customer base across Europe, enabling us to expand our reach and explore new growth opportunities. This balance between independence and collaborative strength empowers us to thrive in our respective markets while leveraging the advantages of being part of a larger group.
What are the advantages of belonging to a larger group of software companies, the GENII Software Group?
Being part of the GENII Software Group provides a strong signal of stability and reliability to our customers, as the backing of a large, well-resourced group enhances trust and credibility. Furthermore, Werbas KSR benefits from significant support in back-office operations, allowing them to focus more on their core competencies and customer service. The group facilitates joint product development initiatives, particularly in cutting-edge areas such as the integration of artificial intelligence into software solutions, enabling member companies to stay at the forefront of technological advancements.
