Australian packaging and labelling equipment manufacturer Aldus has purchased ADI Foils Europe, after the UK-based API group of companies entered administration in January.
Aldus has manufactured label applicators and other equipment for 49 years with operations throughout Australia, New Zealand, Malaysia and USA. This acquisition follows its purchase of Australian foil manufacturer and global distributor Milford Astor Foilmakers last year.
This latest deal excludes API’s Dutch and Asian operations. The new company, called API Foilmakers, will see production restart at the company’s factory in Livingston, Scotland.
The API group of companies were placed in administration in January with Ernst and Young saying the demise of the business related to changes in regulations, particularly around cigarette packaging rules, and loss of some clients.
Will Oldham will lead the new company. He worked as managing director of API Foils between 2012 and 2015. He says, “I am delighted to be back leading the API’s European foil business which has been at the forefront of quality graphic stamping foils for many years.
“Joining the Aldus Group will give our team the financial strength and support to ensure the we can continue to deliver the highest quality product to our customers across Europe and the world. We are particularly pleased to be restarting the Scottish manufacturing facility and ensuring the continuing operation of our distribution hubs across Europe, delivering 160 jobs, including more than 100 in Scotland.”
Frank Floriano, chief executive at Aldus, says, “We are committed to provide additional capital and support to ensure that API will continue to supply its existing customers and invest in the development of market leading products.”
Mark Gilbert, API Foilmakers commercial director Mark Gilbert adds that work is underway to get production back to normal in its Livingston premises in Scotland. He says, “This support has just confirmed to us that this is a special business. We are looking to get back to normal production in Livingston as soon as possible, but it will take some time until we can offer a full range of products from manufacture. We will communicate every step with our customers in all markets and work with them to mitigate any further disruption than is necessary.”
Adam Newman, group strategy manager at Aldus, says moving into the decorative packaging space did mark a new direction for the company. He adds, “The whole API group went into administration and Aldus have purchased the European company from the group. They have started a new company which is called API Foilmakers which is owned by the Aldus group.
“Aldus Group owns Tronics, which manufactures label applicators, so we’ve been in the packaging industry for 49 years but moving into the decorative space is new ground for us. Aldus will continue to grow in the packaging and labelling space.”
