Mobilezone acquires AK Group in CHF 180M deal to boost Swiss e-commerce dominance

Swiss mobile retailer Mobilezone is set to acquire the AK Group for around CHF 180 million in cash. The deal, expected to close by the end of June 2026, will expand Mobilezone's online presence and integrate the e-commerce platform Apfelkiste.ch into its operations.

The acquisition marks a major step in Mobilezone's strategy to strengthen its digital retail footprint.

Founded in 2011, Apfelkiste.ch has grown into a leading Swiss e-commerce platform, specialising in smartphone accessories and lifestyle products. The company achieved steady, profitable growth by expanding its product range to over 60,000 items and recognising market trends early. By 2025, it reported revenue exceeding CHF 100 million and an EBITDA of approximately CHF 20 million.

The AK Group, which employs around 100 people, also includes retail branding specialist Marein. Its success in building brand awareness—even beyond the COVID-19 pandemic—has made it a trusted name in Swiss online shopping. Mobilezone plans to leverage Apfelkiste's strong market position by integrating it with its nationwide network of physical stores.

The sellers in this deal include Swiss private equity firm Invision, Apfelkiste founder Pierre Droigk, and another co-founder. Droigk, who previously served as CEO of the AK Group, is expected to join Mobilezone's board of directors at the 2027 general meeting.

Mobilezone anticipates that the acquisition will create substantial long-term value. The move will significantly boost its online business while combining Apfelkiste's digital expertise with its own retail infrastructure.

The acquisition will see Apfelkiste's platform expand through Mobilezone's existing store network. With the deal set to finalise by mid-2026, both companies aim to strengthen their market positions. Mobilezone's investment reflects confidence in the continued growth of Swiss e-commerce.