M&A

Cerm acquires Omikai Systems in Sweden

Selah Zighelboim — Wed, 19 Feb 2025 14:46:53 +0000

Cerm, an MIS provider for the labels and packaging print industry, has acquired Omikai Systems in Sweden. Omikai has built and commercialized cloud-native MIS technology for the print and packaging industry.

Since regaining its independence through a management buyout in 2020, Cerm has grown its global presence and market share. Based on that growth, Cerm has invested since 2022 in developing a next-generation cloud platform that will offer label and packaging converters the option to evolve from the current Cerm product portfolio to a cloud-based MIS one. Cerm acquired Omikai to accelerate its cloud product development, which will be commercialized in the coming years. Cerm will continue to offer its current range of MIS technology.

The acquisition will not result in any changes for existing Omikai customers and partners.

'We have been strongly impressed with the cloud MIS product and service offering of Omikai and believe our companies have a similar vision, customer focus and culture,' said Jan Heyse, Cerm’s CEO. 'Joining forces will strengthen our cloud product development and create additional value for our customers. We welcome the entire Omikai team to Cerm and eagerly look forward to further accelerating the business, growing our joint team and expanding our product offering.'

Mathias Erlandsson, founder of Omikai, commented: 'I am incredibly excited about this new chapter for Omikai. As an entrepreneur, I’ve always believed that innovation and a personal commitment to our customers are at the heart of success. Together with Cerm, we now have a unique opportunity to accelerate our mission and deliver even more innovative digital solutions to the printing, label and packaging industry. I look forward to building on our legacy of excellence and creating even greater value for our customers, partners and friends. This is not just a business move — it’s a shared journey toward an even brighter future.'

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4 days 22 hours ago

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Cerm acquires Omikai Systems in Sweden

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Cerm acquired Omikai to accelerate its cloud product development.

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Cerm acquired Omikai to accelerate its cloud product development.

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All4Labels strengthens presence in South Africa

Akanksha Meena — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 10:56:33 +0000

All4Labels Global Packaging Group has made strategic investments in infrastructure and technology to enhance its services in South Africa, marking a milestone in the company’s growth strategy.

With the acquisition of a production site in Durban 18 months ago, All4Labels expanded its market presence in South Africa. Since then, the group has successfully integrated the facility into its global network, ensuring it aligns with the company’s high standards and operational policies. With this integration now being completed, the site will play a key role in advancing the company’s labeling services in the South African market.

The South African region is strategically important for All4Labels as part of its broader growth objectives. The group is committed to delivering high value to its customers, currently served in the personal care, home care, food and beverage, wine and spirits, pharmaceutical, industrial and chemical markets. With advanced technologies and the combined expertise of its Durban and Cape Town sites, the group is targeting an expected growth rate of +8 percent supported by an investment of 1.6 million EUR (1.65 million USD).

The newly expanded shopfloor highlights the company’s enhanced capabilities in flexo, built to increase speed and capability in PSL, SSL and wrap label applications. These capabilities enable All4Labels to provide the latest disruptive technology Stardirect, the new ‘no label’ look product that significantly reduces plastic and wastes by eliminating printing substrates. This product is suitable for glass, plastic, and aluminum containers. It offers sustainability benefits, premium look and operational excellence for brand owners, and more importantly, includes products that do not currently use labels.

‘We are thrilled with the progress of our Durban and Cape Town sites,’ said Günther Weymans, CEO of All4Labels Global Packaging Group. ‘The dedication of our local teams has been instrumental in achieving important milestones, and we are confident their efforts will help us meet our ambitious growth targets in the region.’

Guido Iannone, chief sales officer, added: ‘South Africa is a strategic region for All4Labels, not only to serve the local market but also to cater to the growing demand across the entire Sub-Saharan Africa region. With our Star portfolio we enable brand owners to convert their packaging into an attractive designed solution with lower environmental impact and ultimately achieve their sustainability targets.’

The group is also going through a leadership transition: Justine Bufe stepped down from her role as managing director of the Durban site and country manager, with Jackelyn Naidoo stepping into the country manager position.

‘I would like to express my sincere gratitude to All4Labels for the trust and opportunities I have received,’ stated Bufe. ‘It has been a truly rewarding journey, and I am proud of everything we have achieved together. As I step down from my role, I am fully committed to ensuring a smooth and successful transition and will continue to support Jackelyn and the team during this process. I am confident that All4Labels will continue to thrive and reach new heights under her leadership.’

‘I am truly honored to take on this important role,’ said Naidoo. ‘I would like to thank Justine for her guidance during the transition, and I am grateful to the group for the trust they’ve placed in me. We are committed to maintaining the same level of dedication and delivering even stronger results moving forward.’

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1 week 5 days ago

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All4Labels strengthens presence in South Africa

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With the acquisition of a production site in Durban 18 months ago, All4Labels expanded its market presence in South Africa.

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With the acquisition of a production site in Durban 18 months ago, All4Labels expanded its market presence in South Africa.

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Kezzler acquires Scanby’s Smart Packaging and QR Code business

Piotr Wnuk — Wed, 12 Feb 2025 00:32:21 +0000

Kezzler, a traceability innovation and digital product specialist, has acquired Scanbuy’s Smart Packaging and QR Code consumer engagement business to strengthen its global footprint and expand its product offering.

Scanbuy's customers will now have access to Kezzler's world-class traceability platform, enabling them to meet the growing demand for increased product transparency, traceability and disclosure.

Organisations will benefit from products that address value chain traceability, US FSMA 204 adherence, the EU Digital Product Passport, EUDR and ePIL compliance, as well as enhanced consumer engagement.

The acquisition comes at a pivotal moment when product transparency, traceability and disclosure have shifted from optional to essential imperatives for consumers, regulators and businesses worldwide, especially in the apparel, retail, food and beverage, health and CPG sectors.

The combined business, operating out of the US, Europe and Asia, will serve a wide range of multinationals such as PepsiCo, Bimbo Bakeries, Kellanova, Reckitt, Mondelez, Migros, DeCA, ENI, Gerber Products Company and United Parcel Service.

The acquisition combines Kezzler’s digital ID and traceability platform with Scanbuy’s smart packaging technology and consumer engagement products.

Kezzler and Scanbuy customers will benefit from increased R&D investment, a robust customer support network, and innovative technologies tailored to meet growing industry requirements and compliance, regardless of territory.

‘This acquisition aligns the expertise of two pioneering companies, positioning us to redefine what’s possible in product transparency and traceability,’ said Christine C. Akselsen, CEO of Kezzler. ‘Uniting Kezzler and the Scanbuy smart packaging footprint is extremely powerful, unlocking the opportunity to combine smart packaging and SmartLabels, already in use across 100,000 product lines in the US alone, with our capabilities to collect, structure, and share product traceability data at massive scale.’

Scanbuy’s general manager, Maryann Moschides, and vice president of product and innovation, Didier Frantz, will lead the acquired business as part of Kezzler, ensuring a smooth transition and driving continued industry leadership.

‘Joining forces with Kezzler expands our existing smart packaging solutions with exceptional traceability and authentication technologies that our clients expect,’ commented Moschides. ‘The untapped potential in combining valuable real estate on packaging with digital product information and meaningful consumer engagement is vast. Together, we deepen our impact to meet the evolving needs of our clients.’

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1 week 5 days ago

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Kezzler acquires Scanby’s Smart Packaging and QR Code business

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The acquisition will strengthen Kezzler’s global footprint and expand its product offering.

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The acquisition will strengthen Kezzler’s global footprint and expand its product offering.

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Resource Label Group acquires Imprimerie Ste-Julie

Selah Zighelboim — Mon, 10 Feb 2025 15:18:18 +0000

Resource Label Group, a label and packaging provider, has acquired Imprimerie Ste-Julie, located in Sainte-Julie, Quebec.

Owned and operated by Caroline Fournier and Marilène Fournier, Imprimerie Ste-Julie serves businesses that seek customized, creative and sustainable labels. ISJ partners with customers in the food, beverage, pharmaceuticals, natural products and cosmetics markets.

'Joining the Resource Label Group family is an exciting new chapter for Imprimerie Ste-Julie,' said co-president Caroline Fournier. 'For nearly 50 years, we have been committed to delivering exceptional quality and service to our customers. RLG will allow us to expand our capabilities, introduce new innovations and continue offering the personalized experience our clients expect. We are thrilled to join a network that shares our dedication to excellence and growth.'

Co-president Marilène Fournier said: 'With Resource Label Group, we gain access to cutting-edge technology, expanded resources and a collaborative network of industry leaders. This partnership strengthens our ability to provide high-quality, customized label solutions while maintaining the values that have defined us for decades. We are excited for this next phase in our journey.'

Mike Apperson, CEO of Resource Label Group, added: 'The Fournier family has grown this business into a leader in the Quebec market — one that aligns perfectly with our commitment to excellence and innovation. This acquisition allows us to better serve customers in Quebec, and we are excited to grow with the Imprimerie Ste-Julie team.'

This is Resource Label Group's 34th acquisition.

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1 week 6 days ago

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Resource Label Group acquires Imprimerie Ste-Julie

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The Quebecois company serves customers in food and pharmaceuticals, among other markets.

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The Quebecois company serves customers in food and pharmaceuticals, among other markets.

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Samorani Group joins Alliance Étiquettes

Piotr Wnuk — Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:38:23 +0000

Italian Samorani Group, a family business consisting of three companies, Samorani, Etica's and Procom, has joined Alliance Étiquettes Group.

Samorani, founded by Daniele Samorani in 1989 and based in Forli, Italy, offers a wide range of offset, screen and digital printing for the production of various products for the paper and packaging and publishing industries.

In 2001, the company opened Etica's, a specialized label printing division that uses the main existing printing techniques, including screen printing, hot foil stamping, rotary flexo and digital.

Finally, Procom offers a full range of integrated communication agency services. It specializes in corporate and brand identity, graphic design, copywriting, websites, packaging, stand and interior design.

The group's activities are mainly aimed at the food industry and have developed over a short radius. The vast majority of customers are located in the Emilia Romagna region of Italy.

‘This integration will allow our group to diversify into sectors complementary to that of labels (with packaging, merchandising and integrated communication) and to take a new step forward in our international development,’ explains Olivier Laulan, president of Alliance Étiquettes.

This new entry follows the recent acquisitions of France's Imprimerie Berjon, L'éperon and Impressions de L'Enclos. It strengthens Alliance Eituqettes' position as one of the market leaders in Europe, particularly in Italy after integrating Tonutti Tecniche Grafiche of Friuli at the end of 2022.

Posted date

3 weeks 5 days ago

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Samorani Group joins Alliance Étiquettes

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The integration will allow the group to diversify into sectors complementary to labels.

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The integration will allow the group to diversify into sectors complementary to labels.

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Brook + Whittle acquires Stouse

Piotr Wnuk — Sun, 19 Jan 2025 22:06:23 +0000

Brook + Whittle has acquired Stouse, a Kansas-based manufacturer and supplier of decals, labels and promotional printed items. This strategic acquisition brings Stouse into the Sprink division of Brook + Whittle, which also includes Discount Labels.

Stouse and Discount Labels will continue operating as individual companies, each maintaining unique strengths. Integrating Stouse’s production facility into Sprink’s manufacturing network aims to improve manufacturing speed, capacity and reliability.

Bill Wood, executive vice president of the Sprink Division, said: ‘This acquisition represents a significant milestone in Brook + Whittle’s growth strategy, further enhancing our capabilities and product offerings.

‘By uniting Stouse with Sprink and Discount Labels, we can provide our customers with an unmatched range of products, delivered fast and with high quality. With this acquisition, we enable Stouse to sell stand-up pouches, RFID embedded labels, shipping labels and prime labels—at the same time we open Stouse’s product portfolio of coasters, parking hang tags, magnets, decals, yard signs, folding cartons and stickers to the Brook + Whittle family of companies.’

Brook + Whittle looks forward to leveraging this acquisition to drive continued growth while remaining focused on its mission of providing innovative, sustainable packaging.

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1 month ago

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Brook + Whittle acquires Stouse

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Integrating Stouse’s facility into Sprink’s manufacturing network aims to improve manufacturing speed, capacity and reliability.

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Integrating Stouse’s facility into Sprink’s manufacturing network aims to improve manufacturing speed, capacity and reliability.

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Resource Label Group acquires Screenprint/Dow’s label business

Selah Zighelboim — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 16:11:05 +0000

Resource Label Group, a custom label and packaging company, has acquired Screenprint/Dow’s label business. This acquisition highlights Resource Label Group’s commitment to preserving and building upon the legacy of label industry leaders, as well as providing a home for these businesses and their customers.

Screenprint/Dow founder Walter Dow has been recognized as a pioneer and leader in the field, including receiving the TLMI Converter of the Year award.

'We are thrilled to welcome Screenprint/Dow’s label business into the Resource Label family,' said Mike Apperson, CEO of Resource Label Group. 'Walter Dow is a legend in our industry. His contributions have set a benchmark for quality, innovation and service that have shaped how we all approach labeling solutions. This acquisition is not just about growth – it’s about honoring and continuing that incredible legacy.'

By joining Resource Label Group, Screenprint/Dow’s label segment customers will gain access to expanded capabilities, advanced technologies and the resources of a coast-to-coast network while continuing to benefit from the high Screenprint/Dow standards they have come to expect.

Dow, founder and owner of Screenprint/Dow, said: 'After decades of building a business rooted in quality and relationships, it was essential to find the right home for the label business. Resource Label Group stood out as a company that values legacy and has the resources to elevate what we’ve built. I’m excited to see how this next chapter unfolds for our loyal label customers.'

This acquisition involves all Screenprint/Dow’s label business and does not include other product offerings.

Posted date

1 month 1 week ago

Short title

Resource Label Group acquires Screenprint/Dow’s label business

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This acquisition highlights Resource Label Group’s commitment to building upon the legacy of label leaders.

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This acquisition highlights Resource Label Group’s commitment to building upon the legacy of label leaders.

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Coveris acquires S&K Label

Selah Zighelboim — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 15:07:39 +0000

Coveris has acquired S&K Label in the Czech Republic. S&K Labels is now Coveris Brno and is part of the Coveris Group.

This acquisition marks Coveris' third acquisition in Central and Eastern Europe and its first label business acquisition outside the UK.

Integration into the Coveris global network brings an opportunity for knowledge-sharing between the Czech Republic and the UK. The combination of local market expertise and Coveris’ leadership in labels and packaging in the UK will enhance Coveris Brno’s ability to meet local customers' needs while aligning with international standards and trends.

Miroslav Vrba, managing director of Coveris Brno, said: 'We are proud that our labels business will be growing, being part of Coveris Group. It expands our platform and strengthens our geographic reach. For our customers in the Czech Republic, this change reinforces our commitment to delivering innovative, sustainable and locally tailored label solutions. Being part of Coveris Group enables us to further enhance our capabilities and continue providing exceptional value to our partners.'

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1 month 1 week ago

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Coveris acquires S&K Label

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S&K Labels is now Coveris Brno and is part of the Coveris Group.

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S&K Labels is now Coveris Brno and is part of the Coveris Group.

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Scaling label business to ensure exit readiness

Selah Zighelboim — Fri, 03 Jan 2025 20:04:47 +0000

M&A 03 January 2025

Scaling label business to ensure exit readiness

For privately-owned companies looking to exit the market, lan Smith and Kevin Young of Portfolio Partners offer advice on how to be set up for a successful exit strategy

The label and package-printing industries have undergone significant transformation in the past decade, driven by the rise of digital printing, sustainability demands, e-commerce growth and the need for greater efficiency.

For example, the printing and converting industry increasingly adopts Industry 4.0 principles to optimize production processes, reduce downtime and improve product quality.

Acquirers and investors in this space will likely focus on companies that have adopted these new technologies and are well-positioned to meet evolving consumer and regulatory demands.

Over the next three years, many privately-owned companies will look to exit the market with the help of investment banks, but most will be disappointed. Some will receive low offers, others no offers at all and many will fail due diligence.

The main issue is that these businesses were not built with an exit strategy in mind and are simply not ready for sale. This challenge can be overcome by employing a value-creation approach to scaling your company.

Value creation

Even if you do not currently plan to sell your business, it's smart to scale it. This calls for developing value-creation strategies that appeal to buyers and address concerns associated with risk.

Whether you've been in business for five or 50 years, the most effective way of executing this approach is to step back and look through the lens of a buyer. Perform a buyer assessment that identifies value leakage that can undermine your business's long-term outlook.

The most common areas of concern for investors/buyers:

Branding: Does this brand stand out in the marketplace? Does it have name recognition? Has the company won industry awards? Do journalists write about the company and its products?

Dependency: Is the business dependent on the owner? Is revenue reliant on a few core customers Are the profits coming from old legacy products and services?

Talent: Is the management team world-class? Are all the major functions covered? Is morale high? Is there a succession plan?

Technology: Are current technologies in place that enhance efficiency, scalability and quality? These include business processing systems, supply chain and inventory management, data analytics and reporting tools. From a production standpoint, is pre-press technology antiquated or does it employ the latest in digital workflow, computer-to-plate, and automation to rapidly handle incoming artwork and create proofs? Does the printing, converting and finishing equipment incorporate modern auto-registration, ink control and waste reduction technologies?

Processes: Do all departments use playbooks? Are there lead generation and sales processes, marketing strategies, financial controls and forecast systems?

As an acquirer, you will not want to intervene and fix things to successfully integrate the business or invest in significant post-acquisition costs.

Incorporating this mindset requires business owners to include key steps that are often missing in their exit strategy. Let’s call this the ‘value creation gap’.

Value creation strategies

Steps a business can take to fill the ‘gap’ include develop an audit and exit roadmap (might take up to 90 days); strategically reposition to accelerate revenue growth (90 days); enhance operations to build efficiency and scalability (15 to 24 months).

This process challenges private company owners to take a particular approach: to see their business through the eyes of a buyer. This perspective reveals value leaks that may be hidden in your company, not to be confused with your company’s ‘valuation’. Experienced buyers focus on mitigating risk; they do not want to inherit problems. They are already thinking about post-acquisition integration before they even meet you.

An audit and exit roadmap

Buyers examine issues that they most cherish. For this reason, it’s helpful to conduct a saleability test that evaluates key factors, such as brand recognition, a track record for technology investment, management team qualities, successful new product launches, management information standards and client list. The output of the test should shape the operational priorities for the next one or two years. It produces a new report card that aligns priorities and builds value.

Analyze the M&A landscape to obtain a deep understanding of an acquirer’s strategic rationale. This holds for both strategic and financial buyers.

Strategic repositioning

Evaluate your brand strategy to craft a unique market position based on what buyers value, where the market is headed and why customers remain loyal. Create and implement marketing campaigns based on customer research and analysis. Continuously track key performance indicators and refine strategies for improvement. With this knowledge, you will be positioned to implement the operational changes that increase your business’s value.

Operational enhancement

Operational enhancement is where you address audit findings and bring your new story to market. Value leaks can hurt your business. Weak processes, outdated technology, poor morale, slow growth and weak margins can all lead to disappointment when exiting.

By taking this approach you will build a stronger and safer business over time, making your company more attractive to potential buyers and more efficient until the time to sell arrives.

Ian Smith & Kevin Young are principals in The Portfolio Partnership, a value-creation company that scales businesses worldwide with revenue of 20 million USD to 1 billion USD organically and through M&A in the labels, print, packaging, material testing, life sciences, manufacturing and service sectors.

They can be reached at ian@tppboston.com and kevin@tppboston.com or www.portfoliopartnership.com

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Esko to sell AVT business to Porat Itay

Piotr Wnuk — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 01:02:02 +0000

Esko has confirmed the sale of its Advanced Vision Technology (AVT) print inspection business to Porat Itay Holdings. The transaction is anticipated to close in Q1 2025, subject to any customary conditions under applicable local law.

The divestiture includes assets, employees, contractual agreements and intellectual property specific to AVT. Under its new ownership, AVT will maintain its brand name, identity, and product portfolio.

Porat Itay is a private company based in Israel, founded by Roy Porat and Yaron Itay. Roy Porat previously held the role of president of AVT from 2020 until 2023, and Yaron Itay has successfully built and led several industrial technology companies in Israel.

‘Selling the print inspection business, enables AVT to operate with the strategic focus necessary to drive its growth and innovation,’ said Joël Depernet, president of Esko. ‘With our commitment to drive value accretive growth within our culture at Esko, it became apparent that our strategic ambitions in packaging management, prepress workflow and flexo platemaking solutions hindered the ambitions of the AVT print inspection business. Under new leadership, I am sure AVT has exciting times ahead. We wish the team the very best for the future.’

‘We are very excited about this opportunity, as it is the beginning of a new era for AVT,’ said Porat. ‘Given my familiarity with the AVT business, I am confident that with the support of the associates globally, we will demonstrate the right strategic focus and commitment to investment to grow the business and serve our customers.’

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2 months ago

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Esko to sell AVT business to Porat Itay

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The divestiture includes assets, employees, contractual agreements and intellectual property specific to AVT.

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The divestiture includes assets, employees, contractual agreements and intellectual property specific to AVT.

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M&A

Cerm acquires Omikai Systems in Sweden

All4Labels strengthens presence in South Africa

Kezzler acquires Scanby’s Smart Packaging and QR Code business

Resource Label Group acquires Imprimerie Ste-Julie

Samorani Group joins Alliance Étiquettes

Brook + Whittle acquires Stouse

Resource Label Group acquires Screenprint/Dow’s label business

Coveris acquires S&K Label

Scaling label business to ensure exit readiness

Value creation

Value creation strategies

An audit and exit roadmap

Strategic repositioning

Operational enhancement

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Esko to sell AVT business to Porat Itay