Resilience in a volatile year: Rotary sets the stage for 2026
Despite a turbulent year marked by declining sales and cautious customer investment, the Rotary Business Unit continued to report strong profitability in 2025. Rotary expanded into high-growth markets and intensified its innovation and transformation efforts. The Business Unit is entering 2026 with confidence and clear growth ambitions.
2025 was a challenging year for the Rotary Business Unit, marked by an unpredictable global environment and ongoing market volatility. Revenue declined to 160.3 million euros, down 7.4% from the previous year. Stagnant order intake reflected cautious customer behavior and delayed investment decisions. Despite these challenges, Rotary remained profitable and resilient and is well positioned for growth in 2026.
Regional performance varied significantly. Some markets faced economic and geopolitical pressures, while others recovered toward the end of the year. Adaptability, customer focus, and consistent execution were key factors in this context. Diamond-Roltran achieved a record year, secured its first major contract in the aerospace sector, and gained access to high-growth markets.
The service-oriented segment of the paper industry performed strongly, supported by customer trust, technical expertise, and a strengthened service team. Thanks to expanded capacity resulting from the acquisition of Gardner Systems in 2023, steam and condensate systems saw strong demand. Rotary won a major order from a leading global paper manufacturer.
“ I am proud of how our teams have navigated a challenging year with flexibility and determination. Thanks to their dedicated efforts, we are well-positioned to achieve our growth targets for 2026.”
Progress in the transformation
Rotary expanded in the mid-market segment and tapped into markets such as aerospace through new, highly innovative applications. Aggressive and systematic project acquisition, coupled with broad market coverage, enabled it to gain market share. In 2025, the Business Unit advanced several key technologies through targeted R&D investments. A patent for Auto-Sense technology in the machine tool market is in preparation and is expected to make a significant contribution to revenue.
The patent- pending contactless data transmission represents a significant advance in slip ring technology, opens up new application possibilities, and strengthens Rotary’s innovation profile. Further developments included best-cost products such as connectors for continuous casting machine (CCM) unions, value analysis and value engineering initiatives, as well as integrated rotary union and slip ring solutions for the semiconductor market.
Strategic milestones and a strengthened corporate culture
The integration of Diamond-Roltran accelerated Rotary’s entry into the aerospace market. The strong customer interest and secured orders supported this move. The acquisition of the slip ring product lines from LTN expanded Rotary’s expertise and capabilities to applications in the fields of medicine, robotics, and measurement technology. In addition, the Business Unit is further expanding its presence in India and exploring local sourcing opportunities. This serves to strengthen competitiveness and enhance the resilience of the supply chain.
In 2025, people and culture were highlighted as key strengths. As part of several global anniversary events, employees and cohesion, as well as a shared understanding of goals, were strengthened. The high level of employee engagement was reflected in strong results from the global employee survey Voice for Excellence. Targeted training and cultural initiatives promoted skills development, learning, and health and safety.
Strong focus on growth and operational excellence
Growth is the clear priority for 2026, with strong prospects in the slip rings, semiconductors, and aerospace business areas, and in the mid-market segment. The oil and gas market is expected to grow in the United States and in EMEA. This will help Rotary expand its product portfolio to support more drilling rig OEMs. Attracting talented individuals and successfully integrating them into the Rotary culture will be of crucial importance in this regard. A strong focus is placed on operational excellence to achieve significant cost savings and ensure profitability.
In summary, the Business Unit will further strengthen growth through clear communication, close coordination, and a strong team spirit, and thus enters 2026 with confidence and ambition.