In what it said is its biggest acquisition to date, food packaging specialist Faerch Plast (Holstebro / Denmark; www.faerchplast.com) has purchased thermoformed packaging manufacturer Anson Packaging (Haddenham / UK; www.ansonpackaging.co.uk). Financial details of the deal were not disclosed. The acquisition was announced just days after the Danish group touted plans for an “aggressive” expansion strategy in several markets – see Plasteurope.com of 21.04.2015.

Commenting on the purchase, Faerch Plast CEO Lars Gade Hansen said, “With Anson Packaging, we will strengthen the group’s position as a leader in the production of high performance packaging solutions for ready meals, fresh meat, and cold foods and snacks.” The UK company specialises in packaging for the food-to-go, dairy desserts, bakers and convenience sectors and has a turnover of about EUR 67m. It has been managed by the Dujardin family for the past 40 years, and chairman Mark Dujardin now joins the board of Faerch Plast.

The acquisition – which is part of Faerch Plast’s growth strategy following its takeover by the EQT private equity fund (Stockholm / Sweden; www.eqt.se) last year (see Plasteurope.com of 20.02.2014) – will allow the Danish group to broaden its portfolio while also gaining insight into Anson’s expertise in design and innovation. Faerch Plast has already announced a three-year investment programme for the UK group’s production facilities and aimed at further developing its existing competencies.