Atitlan has reached an agreement with the Guillén Chico family to become Gaviota‘s new principal partner. The transaction, still pending completion, will allow for joint control of the Alicante-based manufacturer of awnings, blind accessories, windows, pergolas, and enclosures, after facilitating the exit of the previous principal partner and a minority of individual shareholders.

The alliance with Atitlan aims to enable Grupo Gaviota, led by Francis Guillén as CEO and co-owner, to embark on a new phase of growth and consolidation with the support of the business group founded by Roberto Centeno and Aritza Rodero, recognized for its two-decade track record as a leading investor in sectors such as real estate, agri-food, energy, construction, and services.

The agreement with the Guillén family, advised by BBVA in the search for a new partner, is expected to be formalized during the first quarter of 2025. Atitlan’s objective as a new key shareholder is to continue supporting the management team in the growth, development, and consolidation of this successful business project, one of the most prominent in its sector.

Gaviota, founded in 1967 under the original name Forjas del Vinalopó, has its headquarters in Sax (Alicante) and maintains its status as a family business through the second generation of the Guillén Chico family. The management team, led by Francis Guillén, has made the company the leading manufacturer in its various segments globally.

The international expansion process has allowed Gaviota to diversify its revenue geographically, achieving sales in 90 countries, employing more than 1,300 people in its subsidiaries, and exceeding €260 million in revenue by 2024 (more than half of which will be outside Spain). This ambitious commitment to new products and markets, sometimes through inorganic operations, has allowed the company to triple its size between 2021 and 2024.

Grupo Gaviota
GAVIOTA is a global leader in the smart blinds and awnings accessories sector. It develops sun protection systems based on innovative, safe, cost-effective, and sustainable solutions, thanks to a qualified team of more than 300 people united by dedication, research, and commitment to customers, allied with the latest technological advances.

Atitlan
Atitlan is a business group with a presence in various economic sectors (agriculture, real estate, energy, industry, etc.) committed to creating long-term, sustainable value. Founded by Roberto Centeno and Aritza Rodero 20 years ago, the project has invested more than €1.7 billion and manages assets valued at over €1 billion.