Flint Group acquires AIC and finalises Siegwerk web offset arm takeover

Flint Group has completed its take over of Siegwerk Druckfarben’s Heatset and Newsink production arm and acquired US-based American Inks and Coatings.

The Luxembourg-headquartered consumables and printing equipment manufacturer has announced its acquisition of American Inks and Coatings (AIC) for an undisclosed sum.

The company said the deal was part of a long-term strategy to grow in key packaging segments and would support "dynamic growth in the global packaging market" and better align the business with its packaging and converting customers in North America.

"In combining the strengths of AIC and Flint Group, we are able to provide the North American packaging market with greater product expertise and also deliver improved value and service platforms to our customers," said Doug Aldred, president of Flint Group, packaging and narrow web division.

"The increased knowledge and expertise obtained as a result of this acquisition will only further enhance Flint Group's global potential as we continue to support our packaging and converting customers in reaching their goals."

Meanwhile the global manufacturing giant has also announced the completion of its takeover of Siegwerk Druckfarben's web offset business.

The agreement was originally announced in February this year, but was subject to approval from the competition authorities, and was finalised on 30 June.

The deal sees Flint Group take over Siegwerk’s Heatset and Newsink product line business, the latter's only remaining web offset products, as the German firm focuses on a long-term strategy of growing its operations in inks and coatings for the labels and flexible packaging markets. The company will continue to produce inks for the gravure market.

Under the terms of the agreement Siegwerk will continue to manufacture on behalf of Flint Group for the next three to six months to ensure a smooth transition for customers.

Following the transfer, Flint Group will retain a core team from Siegwerk's web offset team while 76 permanent staff will be transferred to other roles at the German manufacturer's Siegburg site.

Flint Group employs around 7,900 people globally and posted sales of €2.2bn (£1.87) in 2015.