US-based flexible packaging company C-P Flexible Packaging (C-P) has acquired privately-held packaging manufacturer Sycamore Sales, which trades as Preferred Packaging, for an undisclosed sum.
Based in Norcross, Georgia, US, Preferred Packaging specialises in manufacturing multilayer flexible films, thermoformed containers and tray sealing equipment. The acquisition is C-P’s first foray into the meal solutions market and will add several manufacturing capabilities to the company.
These include thermoforming, flexographic printing, laminating, slitting, mechanical macro perforating and microlaser perforating.
Preferred Packaging has a network of salespeople and independent sales representatives primarily serving prepared meals, value-added produce and processed meats markets across the US.
By acquiring Preferred Packaging, C-P intends to expand its knowledge of frozen and refrigerated prepared meal packaging systems.
The acquisition also supports C-P’s goal of expanding its geographical presence in the Southeast US.
C-P CEO Mike Hoffman said: “We are excited to welcome the Preferred Packaging employees and customers to the C-P organisation.
“We saw, during the pandemic, a significant increase in demand for centrally processed meal solutions to help address food safety concerns and believe this trend will continue.
“Additionally, our perimeter of the store growth strategy will be enhanced with Preferred Packaging’s capabilities and exclusive technologies.”
First Atlantic Capital managing director Emilio Pedroni said: “The acquisition of Preferred Packaging shows our commitment to continuing to expand our North American footprint with a diversified portfolio of products.
“The markets that Preferred Packaging services will expand our reach into new sales channels.”
A portfolio company of private equity firm First Atlantic Capital, C-P has ten manufacturing facilities in North America and employs around 1,000 people.
In August, the company acquired Fruth Custom Packaging and its affiliate, Cleanroom Film and Bag (CFB).
Fruth and CFB specialise in producing and marketing flexible rollstock and pre-made pouches for cleanroom environments.