Global PET liquid packaging specialist Sidel has announced the divestment of Hema, an independent subsidiary, to Barry-Wehmiller, a diversified engineering and manufacturing technology company for the packaging, corrugating, sheeting and paper converting industries. The transaction was completed on March 31, 2015.
Hema, headquartered in Quimper, France, manufactures and sells filling systems for complex liquid foods like meats, edible oils, sauces, dressings, dairy products and liquid pate, and also for other areas such as cosmetics. The move is part of Sidel's strategy to focus on the core business of PET liquid packaging solutions to the beverage industry. As a global capital equipment and engineering technology firm with packaging activities, Barry-Wehmiller offers Hema and its associates the opportunity to thrive in a more suitable environment. Barry-Wehmiller has ten interactive divisions: Accraply, BW Container Systems, Barry-Wehmiller International (B-WI), BW Papersystems, Design Group, Hayssen Flexible Systems, Paper Converting Machine Company (PCMC), PneumaticScaleAngelus, Synerlink and Thiele Technologies.
The divestment of Hema to Barry-Wehmiller creates access to new markets and opportunities for Hema, and provides a stable basis to secure the long-term future of the company. Under the terms of the purchase agreement, Barry-Wehmiller will honour both existing supplier and customer agreements. Sidel will retain a supplier relationship with Hema ensuring customers continue to receive the same high level of service already delivered.
Mart Tiismann, Sidel President & CEO, commented: "We are pleased to have found in Barry-Wehmiller a company whose strong engineering capabilities and focus on packaging represents excellent opportunities to take the Hema business forward and we wish them every success in the future."
Bob Chapman, Chairman & CEO of Barry-Wehmiller, commented: "Hema's expertise in providing filling solutions is highly complementary to our diverse portfolio of packaging companies. We are confident that Hema will be further strengthened within the Barry-Wehmiller business model and that its team members will thrive within our dynamic people-centric culture. We look forward to joining the talents of both organizations in creating a strong global presence in the filling market."
