German antenna specialist Kathrein Broadcast has bolstered its international presence by deepening ties with American Amplifier Technologies (AAT), which has taken full ownership of Kathrein Broadcast USA.
The move is part of Kathrein’s ongoing strategic realignment, designed to sharpen its focus on core markets while expanding through international partnerships.
“As part of this strategy, American Amplifier Technologies (AAT) has acquired 100% of the shares in Kathrein Broadcast USA and will continue operating the company under the same name,” said Jörg Lippert, designated CEO of Kathrein Broadcast GmbH. “This step strengthens our global presence. AAT has been familiar with the U.S. markets for years and can position our products there even more effectively. At the same time, we are building on a close sales partnership with AAT ensuring the Scala product line remains available worldwide.”
The Scala range, developed for the North American broadcast market, is designed as robust, standardised equipment covering a wide frequency spectrum for both traditional broadcast applications and modern digital requirements. According to Kathrein, under AAT’s ownership the products will be “even more closely aligned with the needs of local markets in the future.”
Stephen Wilde, CEO of AAT, commented: “We are delighted to acquire Kathrein Broadcast USA Inc. The brand represents the highest technical quality and reliability. A promise we are committed to carrying forward.”
Founded in 2008, AAT specialises in developing, maintaining, and repairing broadcast transmission systems and operates in tandem with its sister company SWE Services. In 2023, AAT strengthened its market presence with the acquisition of Shively Labs, a US manufacturer known for broadcast antennas designed for extreme environments. Today, the group serves customers in more than 100 countries from its headquarters in North Highlands, California.
Kathrein Broadcast, which traces its history back to 1919 in Rosenheim as part of Kathrein SE, is now an independent company. Since 1954, it has supplied broadcasters around the world with antenna systems for FM, TV, DAB and DTV transmission, designed for long-term, maintenance-free operation even in demanding environmental conditions.
The deal with AAT follows news earlier this month that Kathrein Broadcast secured new investors to exit insolvency, enabling the company to continue operations on a stable footing.
