Creative Dock acquires nFrontier to boost hardware design

Creative Dock Group (CDG), a venture builder with operations in Europe and MENA, has acquired nFrontier, a Berlin-based specialist in product experience and industrial design.

The acquisition of nFrontier marks CDG's foray into the hardware production sector, aiming to replicate its established practices in digital product development. Known for its collaborations with major companies such as Airbus, BMW, Dräxlmaier, and Vossloh, nFrontier brings its expertise in prototyping, iteration, and pre-production to CDG's portfolio.

Following the acquisition, initial results have indicated a significant reduction in development cycles, decreasing from 30 months to just four months. CDG's strategic move seeks to bridge the divide between digital and physical products, utilising advanced technologies such as additive manufacturing, CNC machining, and robotics to enhance product development.

Martin Pejsa, Executive Chairman at CDG, commented, "Our manufacturing & FMCG customers are looking for an iterative and agile approach to developing and commercialising physical products in order to compete in the global marketplace. nFrontier has already enabled some of our customers to shorten their 30-month development cycle to just four months. This acceleration has already been seen in the digital world and we need to transfer this speed to hardware."

Daniel Buening, CEO of nFrontier, expressed enthusiasm about joining forces with Creative Dock. He stated, "We are thrilled to be the newest member of the Creative Dock family. With Creative Dock, nFrontier has found the perfect launchpad for future growth and a strong home to fulfil our mission of designing, developing, building, launching and scaling hardware products from the ground up."

Previously, CDG concentrated its efforts on digital products due to their rapid scalability and quick market access. However, with the acquisition of nFrontier, the company now aims to apply its unconventional approaches, previously seen in sectors such as e-mobility and aerospace, to hardware production. This strategic expansion is expected to allow companies to respond more efficiently to market requirements, enhance productivity, and open new avenues for value creation.

Creative Dock has been on a path of significant growth, having also acquired other firms including Spark Works, Rohrbeck Heger, FoundersLane, IdeaSense, and Mantro Studio. With key offices located in Zurich, Prague, Berlin, Munich, and Riyadh, CDG's clientele includes major corporations like Adidas, Ahold, Amadeus, and JTI.

nFrontier is recognised for its use of cutting-edge digital technologies such as robotics, VR/AR, 3D printing, and generative design software to create physical products. With a track record of working with prominent clients, nFrontier's innovations include the 3D-printed E-vehicle UILA and the airbag-equipped bike helmet PYLO.