COPENHAGEN, Denmark, March 16, 2026
GN Store Nord A/S has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Hearing business to Amplifon S.p.A. for DKK 17.0 billion (approximately $2.6 billion), marking one of the most transformative acquisitions in the global hearing-care industry. The transaction, structured as DKK 12.6 billion in cash and 56 million Amplifon shares, will create a globally integrated leader in audiology combining advanced hearing technology development with large-scale hearing-care retail services. The deal is expected to close by the end of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals and completion of a separation process for the hearing business from GN Store Nord.
Strategic Acquisition Creates Global Audiology Leader
The acquisition represents a major consolidation within the hearing care sector, bringing together Amplifon’s global hearing-care retail network and GN’s advanced hearing technology and manufacturing capabilities. Through this integration, the combined entity aims to deliver comprehensive hearing solutions for audiology professionals and patients worldwide, positioning itself as a leading provider of hearing care services and technologies.
Amplifon, widely recognized as a global leader in hearing-care retail, operates an extensive network of thousands of hearing centers across more than 25 countries. GN’s hearing business, meanwhile, includes approximately 5,500 employees worldwide and several established hearing-aid brands, including ReSound, Beltone, and Interton. These brands have played a significant role in advancing hearing technology innovation, particularly in areas such as digital signal processing, wireless connectivity, and personalized hearing solutions.
Following completion of the transaction, the combined company will operate with estimated annual revenues of approximately €3.3 billion and a presence in more than 100 countries, supported by a strong research and development platform and global manufacturing capabilities. Industry experts believe that vertical integration between hearing technology manufacturing and hearing-care retail services will enhance patient outcomes by enabling more personalized and technologically advanced hearing solutions.
Advertisement
Financial Structure and Strategic Benefits
The DKK 17 billion transaction value includes a cash component of DKK 12.6 billion and 56 million Amplifon shares, enabling GN Store Nord to maintain a significant minority stake in the combined business and benefit from future growth opportunities. After the transaction closes, GN is expected to hold approximately 16% ownership in Amplifon, subject to standard lock-up provisions and shareholder agreements.
The deal also includes a shareholders’ agreement allowing GN to propose a representative to Amplifon’s Board of Directors, ensuring continued strategic involvement in the future direction of the hearing-care business. Financial advisors including J.P. Morgan Securities and Nordea Corporate Finance have provided fairness opinions confirming that the transaction is financially fair for GN Store Nord’s shareholders.
GN plans to use proceeds from the sale to strengthen its financial position by reducing debt, reinvesting in its remaining business operations, and potentially returning capital to shareholders. The company indicated that the proceeds exceed its net interest-bearing debt, providing additional flexibility to support long-term growth strategies.
GN Store Nord Refocuses on Audio and Technology Innovation
With the divestiture of its hearing division, GN Store Nord will transition into a focused technology company specializing in audio, video, and communication peripherals. The company has already built strong market positions through well-known brands such as Jabra and SteelSeries, which operate in sectors including professional communications technology, gaming headsets, and audio collaboration solutions.
GN leadership believes the transaction will allow the company to concentrate resources on expanding innovation in intelligent audio processing, low-power edge artificial intelligence, and advanced communication technologies. The company also expects its asset-light operating model and scalable global supply chain to support improved profitability and sustainable growth.
Meanwhile, Amplifon views the acquisition as a transformational milestone in its 75-year history, enabling the company to strengthen its position as the world’s leading provider of hearing-care services and technologies. The combined organization is expected to enhance hearing health for millions of people globally by combining technological innovation with personalized patient care.
As the global prevalence of hearing loss continues to increase due to aging populations and environmental factors, demand for advanced hearing technologies and professional hearing care services is expected to grow significantly. Industry analysts believe the merger will accelerate innovation in audiology while expanding access to modern hearing solutions for patients worldwide, positioning the combined organization as a key player in the evolving hearing-care ecosystem.
Source: Amplifon acquisition, GN press release
