The deal is due to complete on 31 October 2023 for an undisclosed sum and will see Mail Solutions acquire Kalamazoo as a going concern, with the company’s Redditch site remaining fully operational and all 29 Kalamazoo staff moving across to Shropshire-headquartered Mail Solutions under TUPE, taking the group’s headcount up to 240.
Kalamazoo will retain its name and branding. For over 100 years the business has been producing secure documents to protect against fraud, including certificates, cheques, visas, tickets, and gift vouchers.
Employee-owned Mail Solutions said the deal would enable it to build on its reputation for quality and excellence in the envelope manufacture and print markets, providing the operation with an established footprint and globally recognised brand-name in the security print arena.
Karl Lee, managing director at Mail Solutions Telford, said: “We are delighted and excited to be investing in a renowned brand, with proven operational quality. We see great synergy between our existing model and the markets that Kalamazoo operate in.
“We look forward to supporting the growth of Kalamazoo and look forward to introducing their products and services to our existing clients. Together, our clients can now look forward to a more comprehensive suite of solutions, backed by cutting-edge technology, innovation, and a dedication to sustainability.
“We are extremely proud of the growth steps that the business is taking, and we welcome Kalamazoo to the Mail Solutions family.”
Tony Strong, CEO of Adare SEC, added: “This decision has not been made lightly, and it comes after extensive analysis and discussions with the board and executive teams. It will enable the wider Adare SEC business to focus on areas that align with our long-term vision and objectives.
“It was important for us to find the right business to sell to. Mail Solutions recognises and appreciates the heritage and global standing of the Kalamazoo brand and is positioned to drive further success for employees and clients.
“In fact, our ties with the Redditch site will remain – our intention is to partner with Mail Solutions for the provision of high-quality extra capacity to deliver some of the additional volume that we are seeing through new business wins. We wish the business every success for this new chapter.”
Established in 2000, Mail Solutions has a current turnover of £32m while Kalamazoo has a turnover of £4.5m, taking the group’s approximate combined turnover following the completion of the deal to £36.5m.
Serving commercial and public sector clients, the business delivers tailored services across printed envelopes, direct mail stationery, letters and leaflets, tickets and vouchers and more.
Last year, Mail Solutions Group’s Intrinsic Paper Straws business expanded its production site and facilities as part of a major investment to support the long-term growth ambitions of the division.
