Protective packaging materials manufacturer Pregis has agreed to acquire Free-Flow Packaging International (FP International) for an undisclosed sum.
Pregis expects to take ownership in the coming weeks pending regulatory approval.
FP International was founded in 1967 by Arthur Graham, who initiated the use of free-flowing interior packaging material. The company manufactures protective packaging products and packaging systems.
The company’s products include Packaging-Made-On-Site (PMOS), biodegradable, sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging, void fill air cushions, and kraft bubble mailers.
Other products include CELL-O EZ, Novus and Pollow Pak Green inflatable packaging air cushions.
FP International President Joe Nezwek said becoming a part of Pregis’ expanding protective packaging portfolio will enable the company to continue its 50-year commitment to innovation and outstanding customer service.
Nezwek said: “As one company, we can accelerate our efforts to meet the evolving needs of our customers.”
In the US, FP International has manufacturing plants in Illinois and Kentucky. In addition, the company has subsidiaries in France, Germany, the Netherlands, and sales offices in Australia, Asia and South America.
Pregis president and CEO Kevin Baudhuin said: "The acquisition of FP International will benefit our combined customer base by providing a robust set of diverse solutions and accelerated product development—most notably to address growing e-commerce shipping requirements.
“This also significantly strengthens Pregis' geographic position within new international markets, supporting our global growth strategy.”
Under the ownership of Olympus Partners, Pregis has completed six acquisitions in the last four years.
Other acquisitions include Rex Performance Products, Sharp Packaging Systems, 3M Company’s PolyMask protective films business, Easypack paper-based protective packaging systems and Eagle Film Extruders.
Pregis serves various consumer and industrial market segments including food, pharmaceutical, healthcare, medical devices, agricultural, e-commerce, retail, automotive, and several others.
Last month, Pregis announced an additional investment of about $6m in its Pregis Films facility located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
