Berlin Packaging acquires Dutch glass specialist and hints at further European expansions
16 Oct 2020 --- US-headquartered Berlin Packaging, a supplier of glass, plastic and metal containers and closures, is acquiring Vinkova, a Dutch supplier of food and beverage glass packaging solutions. Vinkova is the latest acquisition in Berlin Packaging’s Northern European expansion, which the company says is set to continue.
“We will go ahead full steam with our acquisition activities and diversification strategy that combines organic and inorganic growth, keeping our focus on innovation and design,” Paolo Recrosio, Berlin Packaging Europe’s CEO, tells PackagingInsights.
Vinkova is Berlin Packaging’s eighth European acquisition since 2016. The company has supplied plastic and metal solutions and closures to the Duch market since 2019 through its Novio and Vincap acquisitions.
“In addition to consolidating our positioning in Northern Europe, this acquisition allows us to support customers of all sizes and from all market segments, strengthening our commercial relations and range of extremely high-quality services,” notes Bill Hayes, Berlin Packaging’s CEO and president.
One-stop shop for glass containers
With more than 50 years of experience, Vinkova offers an extensive range of tailored solutions and products to a large Dutch customer base, boasting solid industry know-how and strong relations with some of Europe’s most important glass producers.
“Vinkova’s skills in glass packaging solutions combine with those of Bruni Glass (a member of Berlin Packaging since 2016) in developing customized luxury glass containers, with a catalog of more than 3,000 models,” Recrosio says.
Vinkova is Berlin Packaging’s eighth European acquisition since 2016.“Through the innovative design skills guaranteed by the Bruni Glass Innovation Center in Italy and Studio One Eleven in the US, Vinkova joins Europe’s one-stop-shop for the design of special containers.”
“The acquisition makes it possible to offer a more solid, diversified chain in packaging services and products, guaranteeing top quality and consolidated operative excellence.”
The workforce and structure of Vinkova will not change in line with Berlin Packaging’s acquisition strategy. All employees will remain with the company.
Rapidly expanding global footprint
Berlin Packaging is based in North America, where it has operated since 1898. It boasts a global footprint that is expanding rapidly, with more than 130 offices and warehouses worldwide.
In April 2019, Berlin Packaging acquired Verrerie Calvet, a packaging supplier specializing in wine, spirits, olive oil and condiments solutions, based in Aimargues, France.
Berlin Packaging secured a US$500 million investment in 2018 from Oak Hill Capital Partners and Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) to fund its European expansion.
COVID-19 considerations
Berlin Packaging’s primary focus during the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic is employee safety. The company quickly introduced flexible working while warehouse and logistics operations are in full compliance with health and safety directives.
“All businesses have suffered in some markets, but our well-balanced sales mix – from personal care to spirits and food – allow us to perform strongly during these uncertain times,” Recrosio explains.
“Despite the high complexities of the global pandemic, we’ve had results that few firms have been able to achieve.”
By Joshua Poole
