Funds managed by CapMan Buyout have agreed to sell their holdings in Walki Group to private equity company One Equity Partners. Financial terms of the transaction have not been disclosed.
Walki Group is a leading producer of technical laminates and protective packaging materials, specializing in the production of fibre based, intelligent, multi-layer laminate products for markets as diverse as energy saving construction facings to consumer packaging. Funds managed by CapMan acquired Walki in
2007 and the profitability of the company has developed very favourably especially during the last years.
“During CapMan’s ownership period Walki has successfully executed its growth strategy, both organically and through acquisitions. Walki has invested in the growing construction laminates segment in Western Europe whilst maintaining its leading position in the industrial packaging market. Walki has also expanded significantly in Eastern Europe. I want to thank Walki’s management and personnel for their hard work. I am convinced that a large, international private equity player like One Equity Partners with experience from the packaging sector is the right partner for supporting the growth of Walki in the future," says Anders Björkell, Partner at CapMan Buyout.
“We are very satisfied to have One Equity Partners as the new majority owner. One Equity Partners has a successful track record in developing packaging companies globally and we share a common vision on how to grow Walki into an even stronger company to the benefit of our customers and employees. Further, I would like to thank CapMan for the continuous support during CapMan’s ownership," says Leif Frilund, President and CEO of Walki Group.
“One Equity Partners is an experienced investor in the packaging industry with a number of successful former investments. With top positions in all of its three business areas Construction, Consumer and Industrial, Walki is poised for future growth. With this acquisition, we leverage our expertise in the industry and form a powerful platform for buy-and-build opportunities in an attractive market", says Johann-Melchior von Peter, Senior Managing Director at One Equity Partners.
The transaction is subject to the approval of the competition authorities.