Smurfit Kappa UK has spread its reach within the UK with the acquisition of inspirepac as well as the majority shareholding of Beacon Packaging.
inspirepac is a subsidiary of Logson Group with operations in Wetherby, Chesterfield, Runcorn and a new 100,000 square foot purpose built facility at Markham Vale. This new facility will accommodate state of the art print machinery, including HQPP six colour flexo folder gluer, litho-lamination with flatbed die-cutting and multi point gluing. The company has invested strongly over the past few years to position themselves to become one of the leaders in high quality corrugated packaging solutions together with fulfilment and contract packing services.
Chris Marples, CEO of inspirepac, will continue to lead the business and is enthused by the deal. He commented, ‘We have enjoyed five fantastic years as part of the Logson Group, a period that has seen significant growth and exceptional performance driven by investment and innovation. Looking to the future, Smurfit Kappa is the natural home for our next phase of development, our culture is closely aligned to their philosophy and I am excited by the opportunities our combined strengths can bring to our customers.’
Logson Group CEO Alex Kelly commented, ‘inspirepac has been an excellent investment for Logson Group since we acquired our majority shareholding in 2009. This deal represents value to Logson, Smurfit Kappa and the employees of inspirepac. We wish Chris Marples and his team every success in the future and are sure the business will continue to flourish under their new ownership.’
Beacon Packaging, a trading division of Miramar Investments Limited, based in Aldershot, Hampshire, is a large independent converter of board into corrugated boxes and fitments. The company has invested over the past five years in the latest technology, which allows the company to meet the needs of its customer base.
Clive Bowers, CEO of Smurfit Kappa corrugated UK commented, ‘I am delighted with these acquisitions that will bring two very strong professional management teams into the Smurfit Kappa organisation. The culture of these two companies is very much aligned with the Smurfit Kappa philosophy. They have built excellent businesses in selected customer and product sectors which will add to our existing strengths. These acquisitions support our continued drive to “Open the future” within the UK packaging market, further developing our customer offer, brand and reputation in a way that truly sets us apart.’
