3E Begins a New Era as Part of Forterro
Forterro Expands Software for Small Industrial and Mid-Market Manufacturers with 3E
The addition of 3E builds on Forterro’s growing manufacturing software capabilities, expanding support for small industrial companies and mid-market manufacturers, with continued investment in cloud and AI as part of Forterro’s long-term platform strategy.
London, 18 May 2026 - Forterro, a leading European provider of industrial software solutions, today announced its intent to acquire 3E, a well-established software provider for manufacturers of windows and doors. The acquisition expands Forterro’s capabilities for small industrial and specialist manufacturers across the European mid-market and further strengthens a category it has been actively building through recent acquisitions including Orgadata, BM Group and Klaes. The deal is expected to close in Q2.
Strategic rationale
3E adds strong expertise in ERP, machine interfaces and production planning for PVC and wood manufacturers, complementing Forterro’s existing software portfolio for specialised and industrial manufacturers. Together, the businesses will be even better placed to support customers across materials including wood, PVC and aluminium, as well as different stages of growth and operational complexity, while leveraging cloud and AI-enabled capabilities.
“3E is a strong strategic fit for Forterro. This acquisition strengthens our offering for specialised and industrial manufacturers, expands our support for mid-market manufacturers, and reinforces our position as a long-term partner to the industrial champions driving the European economy. Just as importantly, 3E chose Forterro because of our clear AI strategy and the value it can deliver for their customers. They chose us on behalf of their customers, and we are excited about what we can build together from here,” said Bernd Hillbrands, SVP at Forterro and former CEO of Orgadata.
Forward plan
Following completion, 3E will become part of Forterro’s solutions set for specialised and industrial manufacturers, led by Bernd Hillbrands, SVP at Forterro and former CEO of Orgadata, which was acquired by Forterro in February 2025. His leadership of this expanding category reflects Forterro’s model of enabling founders to thrive within the group while helping shape its long-term direction. 3E customers will benefit from continued product innovation and investment, particularly in AI, while also gaining access to Forterro’s broader portfolio of solutions designed to help industrial businesses improve efficiency and support growth. Forterro also plans to enable 3E to connect to its cloud and AI-based platform over time.
About Forterro
Founded in 2012, Forterro has grown to become a category leader in industrial software – with strongholds in Europe's top production economies, as well as regional service hubs and development centres around the world. From more than 40 office locations, its 2,8500+ employees provide and support software for more than 25,000 industrial businesses. Its products are deeply rooted in the demands of their local geography and each is designed to strengthen and accelerate customers' ability to operate efficiently and compete effectively.
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About 3E
Founded in 1993, 3E is a family-owned software company based in Oberkochen, Germany, with more than 30 years of experience in developing and implementing industry-specific software solutions. The company supports customers in the windows and doors industry primarily driven by their core product 3E-Look as well as ECM solutions from ELO. Today, 3E employs more than 80 people across three locations and operates primarily in Germany and Europe.
