The Ofer Private Equity Group is part of the larger Ofer Group owned by the Ofer Brothers. Established in 2006, they started to maximize the experience that was had by the Ofer Hi-Tech management team. They have, to date, had three successful exits with ECI Telecom, Tecnomatix and Pharmos. They are part of the controlling group of Lumenis and they have focused on technology-based companies until now. They are now widening their scope to include global companies who are hoping to increase their business on an international scale. Two of their current investments include investments in Better Place and Lumenis.
One of the cutting-edge technologies that the Ofer Group has helped to fund is Better Place. This company is bringing to life the dream of zero-emissions electronic cars. With founder and CEO Shai Agassi, Better Place is introducing the world to the possibility of electric cars. They are installing electric charging points in parking spots and in homes, so that people can charge their cars while they work, play and sleep. Charging stations, in addition, will allow drivers to change their battery in less time than it takes to fill a car with gas.
With the help of companies like the Ofer Group, Better Place is implementing their first plan in Israel. In January of 2008 they announced their first implementation with Renault-Nissan and the Israeli government. They will be starting the world’s first nation-wide electric vehicle center in Israel. In March of 2008 they also announced their second location in Denmark which will be powered with renewable wind energy.
They are currently in discussions with over 30 governments around the world, helping countries that are interested to explore the possibility of ending the dependence on important fuels.
Another of the Ofer Group current investment locations is with Lumenis. Lumenis develops and sells light and laser based systems that are used for beauty needs, for surgical needs and for the ophthalmology market. They have over 250 patents and a great deal of field experience and are recognized as a leader for skin rejuvenation, wrinkle removal, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma and more.