Premier Paper has bought retail display and packaging company WBC as part of its mission to expand into further added value sectors. The acquisition complements the group’s purchase of lamination film supplier Zulu Packaging (Now Premier Lamination Films) in July this year.
Ireland-based WBC – which was established in 1989 and has a turnover of £18m – is a packaging and display product supplier to the speciality drinks and food sectors. It will remain unchanged, with the current management team and all 55 employees retained to ensure the continuity of customer/ supplier relationships and to facilitate future growth.
Michael Beever, CEO of the Premier Paper said: “The acquisition of WBC is an important next step for Premier as we continue to complement our traditional paper merchant business with expansion into added value sectors. Having WBC as part of our group will open up many opportunities for all parts of the company to develop product and service offerings through the sharing of knowledge and expertise.”
WBC Managing Director, Tim Wilkinson added: “The change in ownership will enable WBC to grow and prosper under a larger and well-respected organisation. The additional resources, logistics support and expertise provided by Premier will allow us to expand and improve our service and product choice to customers. Being part of a global company also gives both our customers and suppliers confidence and reassurance in these unpredictable times.”
The Premier Paper Group had a turnover of £187m in 2021 and is part of OVOL Japan Pulp and Paper Co. which operates in 21 countries with a turnover of $5bn.
