Benchmark International

Benchmark International is delighted to announce the transaction between Cambridgeshire-based KeCo and Brussels-based Sabert Europe.

KeCo is a fast-growing UK manufacturer and provider of sustainable foodservice packaging made from paperboard and bagasse. The company has its own trademarked StrEAT® range, as well as owning Karrott, a unique AR app offering customers the opportunity to integrate digital and active marketing within packaging.

A subsidiary of US-based Sabert Corporation, Sabert Europe offers high-quality and sustainable solutions for delivery, takeaway and catering. The acquisition enables Sabert to enter the UK market and increase renewable material manufacturing.

Post-acquisition, the entire KeCo team will remain in place and join the Sabert team in order to continue servicing its customers.

Philippe Leemans, chief executive of Sabert Europe, said: “The acquisition of KeCo is a unique opportunity for Sabert Europe to further enhance its portfolio of sustainable foodservice packaging solutions. KeCo is a great company with a strong record of developing and marketing innovative and eco-friendly packaging solutions with a high level of quality and service to its UK customers. The combination of KeCo and Sabert will support our growth strategy to meet European foodservice customers’ growing demand for sustainable solutions. We warmly welcome KeCo’s team to the Sabert family.”

Directors of KeCo, Jamie Kearns, John Young and Alan Pealling said in a joint statement: “By joining the Sabert group, we will have access to larger resources and an extended global market presence. This will accelerate our future growth as we capitalise on the combined distribution network and the European footprint of Sabert, which we are all very excited about.”

On working with Benchmark International, Mr Pealling, added: “Roger and James provided professional and focused support, which enabled us to complete a very successful sale - not least it ensured that we sold to a buyer who would respect and work with our team enabling the business to grow to the next stage.”

Europe: Michael Lawrie at +44 (0) 161 359 4400 / Lawrie@BenchmarkIntl.com

Americas: Sam Smoot at +1 (813) 898 2350 / Smoot@BenchmarkIntl.com

Africa: Anthony McCardle at +27 21 300 2055 / McCardle@BenchmarkIntl.com 

ABOUT BENCHMARK INTERNATIONAL

Benchmark International’s global offices provide business owners in the middle market and lower middle market with creative, value-maximising solutions for growing and exiting their businesses. To date, Benchmark International has handled engagements in excess of $7B across various industries worldwide. With decades of global M&A experience, Benchmark International’s deal teams, working from 14 offices across the world, have assisted hundreds of owners with achieving their personal objectives and ensuring the continued growth of their businesses.

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