Bobst acquires majority stake in Nuova Gidue

Bobst Group has signed an agreement to acquire 65 percent of Nuova Gidue, the Italian manufacturer of narrow and mid web printing presses, as it looks to grow its presence in the label segment and establish ‘our leadership in short run packaging solutions’.

Bobst Group has signed an agreement to acquire 65 percent of Nuova Gidue

Nuova Gidue provides highly automated narrow and mid web in-line flexographic and offset presses for the self-adhesive label industry and short run technologies for packaging converters. Nuova Gidue press technology is a driving force in the REVO project team, and recently won the 2015 FTA Technical Innovation Award.

With the technologies of Nuova Gidue, Bobst will extend its already wide range of printing and converting options, and the purchase confirms its strategy of expansion in the label industry.

Bobst Group expects strong growth in the labels and packaging industries, and plans to build on the expertise and dedication of Nuova Gidue’s existing management and employees at its location in Florence, Italy.

Erik Bothorel, head of Bobst’s web-fed business unit and a member of the Bobst Group executive committee, said: ‘We want to grow in the label segment and establish our leadership in short run packaging solutions. The innovative technologies of Nuova Gidue in flexography and offset can be easily integrated into our existing product lines.

‘Bobst today offers the widest range of printing and converting equipment for the packaging industry and confirms its commitment to innovation.’

Federico d'Annunzio, the owner of Nuova Gidue, will remain with the company as chief executive officer and shareholder. Bobst has the further option to purchase the remaining shares in Nuova Gidue.

d'Annunzio said: ‘Bobst has a strong history and reputation, and a worldwide leadership position in the packaging market. We are proud to be part of a global organization and to bring in our established presence in the label market, as well as the recognized Nuova Gidue culture of innovation.

‘Our partners, customers, suppliers and employees will take great advantage from the long-term plans of Bobst Group.’

Bothorel added: ‘We are impressed by the innovation, performance and product range of Nuova Gidue, which enlarges the product portfolio of Bobst Group in the narrow and mid web market. We believe it is the perfect match, at the perfect moment.’

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