RH Fibreboard has acquired Smart Packaging
Based out of Yate, Bristol, Smart Packaging specialises in the supply of corrugated packaging for a variety of market sectors. Its packaging range includes stock and custom-made cardboard boxes along with a broad range of packaging consumables from adhesive tapes to void fill and pallet furniture.
Smart Packaging has 23 employees, operating out of its specialised manufacturing and storage facility just outside of Bristol.
RH Fibreboard (part of Goonvean Group Ltd) views the move as an excellent way to bolster its manufacturing capabilities along with being able to broaden its product offerings to clients across the UK, boosting existing distribution channels and enhancing product offerings. Both RH Fibreboard and Smart provide packaging into the same sectors and have a synergistic company culture that places a strong emphasis on service to their customers.
Following the transaction, the existing management team and employees will continue to run Smart Packaging as a wholly-owned subsidiary of RH Fibreboard. Sean Baxter, MD of RH Fibreboard, will lead the combined businesses.
“Following Goonvean’s successful acquisition of RH Fibreboard in 2019 and RH Fibreboards subsequent acquisition of SH Fiske in 2023, we are confident that Smart Packaging operations will further enhance our presence in the region and solidify our mutual service levels to the combined customer base,” said Matthew Gazzard, Managing Director of Goonvean Group.
He continued: “Smart Packaging’s product and service capability make them a natural complement to RH Fibreboard, and will allow better standards of quality, design and innovation, operational excellence and speed to market. Supported by the Goonvean Group, we look forward to backing the RH Fibreboard businesses to capitalise on the significant opportunity that this represents. This acquisition further enhances the customer offerings of RH Fibreboard and the Goonvean Group.”
“We are delighted to join RH Fibreboard, as we bring together complimentary product and technology portfolios and market-leading manufacturing capabilities of these two companies,” added Matt Walker, General Manager of Smart Packaging (who will remain in his capacity post transaction). “As part of a privately owned Group of companies, Smart will be well positioned to continue investing in new technology and bringing product ideas to life, while creating increased value for all stakeholders.”
“After over 22 years managing the site, I am extremely pleased that Smart are now integrated into a family-run, investment Group that we are sure will facilitate the exciting next stage of the company’s history.
He continued: “To watch the incredible progression of RH Fibreboard since they joined the Goonvean Group gives us confidence that Smart are now part of a supportive, progressive and ambitious new ownership who will help to maximise all that Smart can achieve”.