PCMC acquires F.L. Smithe

Paper Converting Machine Company (PCMC) has acquired F.L. Smithe Machine Co., of Duncansville, Pennsylvania, USA, a manufacturer of printing and converting equipment.

The acquisition establishes the combined company as a global provider of a wide range of narrow, mid and wide web printing presses. The new partnership also leverages F.L. Smithe’s position in the envelope converting industry to broaden the range of products and markets served by PCMC for dry and wet folding technologies across a variety of applications.

‘With a history spanning more than 100 years, F.L. Smithe has been a leading supplier of state-of-the-art printing and converting systems that include its well-known Aquaflex narrow web printing presses and Champion envelope machines,’ Timothy J. Sullivan, president and CEO of PCMC, said. ‘We plan to continue that tradition of innovation as we carry forward the legacy of F.L. Smithe across its complete range of product offerings.’

F.L. Smithe Machine Co. was founded in 1904 by Ferdinand L. Smithe in New York City. In 1966, under the leadership of Edgar A. Smithe, Jr, president and CEO of F.L. Smithe and grandson of the founder, the company moved to its present location in Duncansville, Pennsylvania. In 2004, the company purchased Aquaflex, a Montreal-based manufacturer of narrow web printing presses.

‘We’re proud to partner with PCMC and Barry-Wehmiller to build on the rich heritage of our companies while serving a broad range of markets and industries worldwide,’ Smithe commented. ‘This agreement ensures the continued commitment to existing and future customers of our Champion and Aquaflex product lines for many years to come with regard to new machinery as well as service and support for thousands of installed machines around the world.’

The F.L. Smithe acquisition is the 44th for Barry-Wehmiller since 1987.

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