In line with its set strategy to become a global leader in selected segments, ÅR Packaging Group AB has acquired all outstanding shares in K+D AG and entered into agreement to acquire all outstanding shares in rlc Packaging GmbH, as well as indirectly a significant share in BSC Drukarnia Opakowań S.A. The companies are well-thought of packaging producers with substantial market presence in the central European market for healthcare and beauty products. This strategic move will elevate AR Packaging to a leading market position also in the healthcare, pharma and beauty segments.
Through the acquisitions of K+D and rlc, AR Packaging will continue its successful growth development in line with the strategic plan to expand in selected segments. The healthcare business of the Group includes both carton based and flexible packaging for customers in the pharma, medical and beauty industry in Europe and Asia.
K+D provides GMP-compliant, finished and counterfeit-proof cartonboard solutions. The company is based in Switzerland, where it holds a leading position in pharmaceutical packaging printing and has around 70 employees.
rlc Packaging is specialised in high quality folding cartons for the beauty, pharma, food and confectionery industries. The Group comprises of four production facilities in Germany and one in Switzerland. Additionally, the group holds a significant share in BSC Drukarnia Opakowań in Poland, with two plants. Employing 1,500 people, rlc Packaging has a strong market position in Central Europe.
“We are excited to welcome these companies, which are a good fit for our group’s growth strategy. Together with our existing activities it will put AR Packaging in the top three in Europe in the healthcare, pharma and beauty segments, served by 11 plants in six countries”, says Harald Schulz, President and CEO of AR Packaging. “The customers of K+D and rlc will benefit from our Group’s product portfolio including multi substrate packaging.”
For K+D, Stefan Kuhn, the previous owner, says, “We are very happy to join the AR Packaging family. It is a strategic step for us which follows the market dynamics and is in favour of our national and international customers as well as for our employees.”
“As a family business in its fifth generation, we have always focused on sustainable and long-term perspectives for our employees and a reliable relationship with our customers,” say Hans-Christian and Stephan Bestehorn at rlc Packaging. “Becoming part of AR Packaging, we see excellent opportunities to further increase packaging expertise and commitment available to pharma and brand owners.”
Completion of the acquisition of rlc Packaging is subject to customary closing conditions, including local regulatory approvals. The parties to the acquisition have agreed that no financial details will be disclosed.
