UK-based Cepac has broadened its offering, with the acquisition of a specialist sustainable corrugated tray producer.
Steve Moss, Managing Director, Cepac Group, has confirmed the company recently completed the acquisition of a majority shareholding in EW Cartons Ltd, the specialist microflute corrugated food tray manufacturer.
Located in Altham, Lancashire, EW Cartons Ltd is now being rebranded under the name Flutepac, as it is brought under the umbrella of Cepac Group. Adam Clifton, the previous owner, remains a shareholder and is appointed as Flutepac’s General Manager.
Flutepac’s portfolio of microflute corrugated packaging is entirely food safe, with its products being fully BRCGS AA accredited. The packaging solutions are utilised extensively for fresh produce, bakery items, ready meals and ‘food-to-go’ containers. Thanks to a wide range of available coatings, Flutepac’s products can be barrier coated, grease proof, moisture resistant and leak proof. The company also offers a range of food trays that can be placed straight into the oven.
“As innovators and manufacturers of food tray packaging, Flutepac is now positioned as one of the UK’s most dynamic suppliers of microflute corrugated packaging solutions as part of Cepac Group,” says Moss. “Thanks to in-house corrugator equipment combined with innovative coating technologies, as well as a range of print options, customers serviced by Flutepac will benefit from using the most sustainable, biodegradable, compostable and recyclable food packaging available in the UK market and beyond.”
As part of the ongoing development of the business, Flutepac will be investing in additional equipment over the coming months. “With our emphasis on food tray packaging, we already utilise industry-leading equipment from the German manufacturer, Heiber + Schröder,” explains Clifton. “As we look to expand our position in the market, we are now in discussions with H+S for the purchase of additional pieces of equipment for future investment. Being part of the Cepac Group certainly enables us to invest rapidly in new machinery and further broaden our portfolio of offerings to customers throughout the UK and Europe.”
“We are delighted to welcome Adam and the team of EW Cartons to the Cepac Group,” concludes Moss. “We have ambitious plans for the Flutepac business, which will include new machinery, new offerings and at all times, best-in-class service.”
Cepac were advised on the acquisition by Ian Marwood at Sentio Partners and Pete Wood and Aidan Barry at Addleshaw Goddard. EW Cartons were advised by Debbie King of Farleys. The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed.
