TL;DR
A Chinese investment company has acquired Mayer & Cie, a German manufacturer with a 120-year history of producing sewing machines. This marks a significant cross-border investment in a historic industry. Details about the deal’s terms and future plans remain unclear.
Chinese investment firm Huixing has acquired Mayer & Cie, a German manufacturer with a history spanning more than 120 years, marking a significant cross-border investment in the textile machinery industry.
The deal was confirmed by Mayer & Cie, which stated that Huixing, a Chinese company, has become the new owner. The financial terms of the acquisition have not been disclosed. Mayer & Cie, headquartered in Hamburg, Germany, is renowned for producing circular knitting machines used globally by major apparel brands such as H&M, Uniqlo, and Decathlon.
Sources close to the matter indicate that Huixing aims to modernize and expand Mayer & Cie’s operations, although specific strategic plans remain unconfirmed. The acquisition underscores China’s growing role in investing in traditional manufacturing sectors outside its borders, especially in Europe.
Why It Matters
This development is significant because it highlights China’s increasing investment in established European manufacturing companies, potentially affecting the global textile machinery industry. It also raises questions about the future of Mayer & Cie’s operations in Germany and how Chinese ownership might influence its product development and international partnerships.
For German industry and European manufacturing, the deal reflects broader trends of foreign investment amid ongoing industry shifts and competition from Chinese rivals. It also signals China’s interest in securing supply chains and technological assets in traditional sectors.

Sentro Knitting Machine, 48 Needles Smart Knitting Crochet Machine with Row Counter for Adults and Beginners, Automatic Circular Weaving Spinning Knitting Loom Machine Kit for Hat,Socks,Scarves,Gloves
【48 Needles Knitting Machine】New Upgrade Sentro 48 needles knitting machines with smart row counter, which can record accurate…
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Background
Mayer & Cie has been a family-owned business for over a century and is considered a leader in circular knitting machine manufacturing. The company has faced increasing competition from Chinese machinery firms, which has impacted its market share. The recent acquisition by Huixing follows a pattern of Chinese firms investing in European manufacturing assets to gain technological expertise and expand their global footprint.
Historically, European machinery companies like Mayer & Cie have struggled to compete with Chinese rivals on price and innovation. The acquisition may be part of a broader strategy by Chinese investors to modernize and integrate these firms into their global supply chain networks.
“We are pleased to welcome Huixing as our new owner. This partnership will help us continue our tradition of innovation and expand our global reach.”
— Mayer & Cie spokesperson
“The acquisition reflects China’s strategic interest in acquiring technological assets and manufacturing capabilities in Europe, which could reshape the industry landscape.”
— Industry analyst Dr. Lena Fischer

VEVOR Industrial Lockstitch Sewing Machine, Commercial Set with Servo Motor & Table Stand, 5000 SPM High Speed, Metal Frame, LCD Panel, LED Light for Cotton Wool Denim Leather Canvas
Thick Material Ready: Powered by a 550W servo motor, this industrial sewing machine reaches 5000 SPM and sews…
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
What Remains Unclear
It remains unclear what specific strategic plans Huixing has for Mayer & Cie, including potential restructuring, investment in new technologies, or market expansion. The financial details of the deal have not been publicly disclosed, and the impact on Mayer & Cie’s European operations is still uncertain.

YIYIBYUS Electric Gear Motor,110V 250W AC Single Phase Gear Reduction Motor 0-135RPM Variable Speed Adjustable Controller Governor Geared Motor and Adjustable Speed Controller Combo
【MAIN PARAMETERS】Name: AC gear motor;Rated voltage: 110V;Rated speed: 0-135RPM;Reduction ratio: 1:10(10K);Torque: 16nm;Power Phase: single-phase;Shaft diameter:15mm;Geared motor size:190MM *…
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
What’s Next
Next steps include official announcements from Mayer & Cie regarding future strategic plans, potential integration initiatives, and how the company will navigate industry competition. Monitoring industry responses and any further Chinese investments in European manufacturing will be essential.

Addi Express King Size Knitting Machine, 46 Needle Round Loom with Row Counter and Hand Crank, Black, 17.7 Inch Flat Panel Width
CREATE HANDMADE KNITS QUICKLY: Craft hats, scarves, sweaters, blankets, and more in less time with a 46-needle round…
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
As an affiliate, we earn on qualifying purchases.
Key Questions
Why did a Chinese company buy a German sewing machine manufacturer?
Chinese firms are increasingly investing in European manufacturing assets to access advanced technology, expand their global footprint, and secure supply chains amid industry competition.
What does this mean for Mayer & Cie’s employees and operations?
Details are still emerging, but the acquisition could lead to changes in management, investment in new technologies, or restructuring. The company has stated it will continue operations as usual for now.
Could this impact the global textile machinery industry?
Yes, the acquisition signals China’s growing influence in the sector, which could lead to increased competition and innovation, potentially reshaping industry dynamics.