Arri sells global rental business

The management buy-out is led by Arri Rental's existing UK-based leadership team of Dana Harrison, Russell Allen, and Tamim Essaji, in partnership with H2 Equity Partners.

Harrison will serve as CEO of the global rental business.

Arri said that a key rationale for the transaction is “to resolve a structural conflict of interest between Arri’s manufacturing business and its own rental business: as a manufacturer of camera and lighting technology, Arri supplies customers and partners worldwide, some of whom compete with its rental activities.”

The company added the move would help it to sharpen its focus on the development, production, and commercialisation of innovative camera, lighting, and software-based technologies. It is also intended to help Arri strengthen its role as an independent and trusted technology partner to the global media and entertainment industry.

The new standalone rental group will transition to its own brand after a transition period.

Illumination Dynamics will remain part of Arri and is not included in the transaction, according to the company.

The management buyout comes after a significant period of change at Arri, which was sold in April 2026 to Thomas Riedel, the Founder and Owner of Riedel Communications and the Riedel Group. In May 2025, Arri sold its lighting company Claypaky to EK.

“This transaction is a milestone in Arri’s strategic transformation and future positioning,” said Riedel. “It enables us to direct our investments even more specifically toward the further development of our technologies and new growth areas. At the same time, it allows the rental business to continue to develop independently and to unlock additional market potential.”

Harrison said: “For the team and me, this is far more than a change of ownership; it’s a commitment. We know the business, our customers, and our craft, and through this management buy-out we’re taking ownership of its future. Arri Rental has built something exceptional over many years, and we’re proud to carry it forward as an independent company. Our customers will see the same teams, the same standards, and the same dedication they have always relied on, but now with the focus and freedom of a business that’s ours to grow. With H2 Equity Partners as our partners, we are exceptionally well placed to invest, expand into new markets, and deepen the relationships that define us. We are also pleased to continue working closely with Arri as our technology partner.”

Patrick Kalverboer, Managing Partner of H2 Equity Partners, said: “Arri Rental has a strong market position, excellent customer relationships, and a highly qualified team. The transaction is an excellent fit with our investment strategy. Together with the existing management team, we intend to continue the company’s successful development and unlock additional growth opportunities. At the same time, we look forward to continuing our close collaboration with Arri as a leading technology partner to the industry.”

Arri recently expanded its Multicam System with the new Alexa 35 Live Xtreme. Discover more here.