Aiper, a Chinese developer of cordless robotic pool cleaning technology, has closed a strategic investment of nearly 1 billion yuan ($137 million), with Spain’s Fluidra alone investing $100 million in the deal.
Fluidra, which delivers its pool and wellness equipment across 45-plus countries, invested $100 million for a 27% stake in Shenzhen-based Aiper to integrate the duo’s strengths and expand their combined consumer base to capitalise on a rising demand globally for smarter, automated pool cleaning solutions.
The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions, including antitrust clearance, Fluidra said in a statement. Its investment in Aiper is expected to be completed in the second half of 2025.
Along with the deal, Chinese venture capital (VC) firm Yunqi Partners put money into Aiper a new investor. Existing shareholders like XVC, Fosun RZ Capital, and Borchid Capital re-upped.
Fluidra expects the initial $100-million investment to bring together its global expertise and scale, industrial capabilities, patents, and distribution networks with Aiper’s cordless smart robotic technology and agile consumer approach leveraging both online and offline direct-to-consumer channels.
Founded in 2015, Aiper works with strategic manufacturing partners in Vietnam and China to produce cordless robotic pool cleaners primarily for consumers in North America and Europe. With its global operations employing about 470 people, including over 270 engineers, Aiper booked sales of approximately $195 million in 2024, up 75% from the prior year.
After the transaction, Fluidra, which owns a portfolio of well-known brands like Jandy, AstralPool, and Polaris, will become a significant minority owner of Aiper.
The Spanish company plans to increase its interest in Aiper to a majority stake through a subsequent investment in cash or in kind, when Aiper reaches revenues of more than $370 million and EBITDA margins around 15%, said Fluidra in its statement.
“We are truly excited about this strategic partnership and initial meaningful minority stake in Aiper with a path to being a majority shareholder,” said Jaime Ramírez, Fluidra’s CEO. “Together, we are set to provide smarter, more efficient solutions to our broad range of customers worldwide.”
