In a strategic move that makes it a key multi-category provider of folding cartons, flexibles and fibre-based containers in the UK, AR Packaging has broadened its offering by adding local folding carton production through the acquisition of Firstan Holdings Ltd.
Whilst the group already holds a strong position as a specialist in flexible barrier materials and carton-based containers for the UK market, the acquisition of Firstan now adds local manufacturing of folding cartons, and thereby enables a unique wide offering of multicategory packaging solutions mainly to the food and healthcare customers.
“It is with great pleasure we welcome the Firstan company and its employees to our AR Packaging family. This addition is of significant strategic importance to strengthen our position on the UK market,” said Harald Schulz, CEO and President of AR Packaging. “Together with our existing two plants in the UK, Firstan provides an excellent platform for further growth in this important and fast-moving market.”
Firstan Ltd is a leading independent folding carton manufacturer with focus on quality, customer service and operational efficiency. Its factory, located in Godmanchester, Cambridgeshire, is a streamlined production facility with best-in-class machinery and operating systems. The company’s 140 skilled employees are dedicated to the design and manufacture of printed cartons for the food, pharmaceutical, healthcare and cosmetic sectors.
“I am happy to see our company take the next step in its development and join AR Packaging,” said Andrew Hartwig, previous majority shareholder and Managing Director of Firstan Holdings Ltd. “Our strategically located and well invested facility will together with our skilled team add further capabilities to AR Packaging and we will together offer extended services to all UK customers.”
Paul Hartwig, also a former shareholder of Firstan Holdings Ltd, added: “This is a very exciting new chapter for our business. Together with the rest of the management team, I am looking forward to working with the AR Packaging team to take our business to the next level.”
