Multiply Group Acquires Majority Stake In Italy's ISEM Group To Enhance Global Packaging Presence

Multiply Group, an investment holding company based in Abu Dhabi, has announced its plan to acquire a majority stake in ISEM, a prominent European packaging group. This acquisition is pending regulatory approval. Once completed, Multiply Group will own 60.8% of ISEM, while Peninsula Capital and other minority investors will hold the remaining 39.2%.

This acquisition marks the beginning of a strategic alliance between Multiply and Peninsula Capital. The partnership aims to leverage Multiply's platform-building expertise and patient capital with Peninsula's deep sector knowledge and influence in Southern Europe. Together, they plan to enhance ISEM’s leadership position and boost its global growth while maintaining its core values of craftsmanship, design excellence, and client trust.

ISEM Group was established in 1949 and is headquartered in Bologna, Italy. It is renowned for its high level of automation and commitment to the 'Made in Italy' brand, known globally for quality and innovation. The company serves major luxury clients such as LVMH, Kiko, Gucci, L'Oréal, Puig, and Coty Lancaster.

ISEM offers a variety of products including rigid boxes, folding cases, silk paper, and dust bags. The company operates 11 manufacturing plants covering over 100,000 square metres. This acquisition represents Multiply Group's entry into the packaging sector, adding a fifth consumer-focused vertical that complements its existing beauty and apparel businesses.

Samia Bouazza, CEO and Managing Director of Multiply Group, stated: "This transaction is our second in Europe this year as we continue with our global growth ambitions. With 3x revenue and 4x EBITDA growth from 2021–2024...we believe ISEM Group is a great fit for our portfolio."

Comments from Key Stakeholders

Borja Prado from Peninsula Capital expressed pride in their journey with ISEM Packaging Group: "We are proud of the journey accomplished together with ISEM Packaging Group...Since our entry, revenues have tripled through strong organic growth and targeted M&A." Francesco Pintucci, CEO of ISEM Group added: "I am proud to welcome Multiply Group as the new majority shareholder...Multiply Group’s investment will further strengthen ISEM’s industrial platform."

The collaboration between Multiply Group and Peninsula Capital aims to maximise competitive advantages within the industry. They also seek synergies with Multiply's beauty and apparel sectors to elevate value creation. This move aligns with their strategy to build a leading industrial group that supports customers comprehensively while upholding high standards of quality and innovation.

The acquisition by Multiply Group signifies a significant step towards expanding its global footprint while reinforcing ISEM’s capabilities. This partnership is expected to enhance service delivery with increased scale and technological excellence without compromising on the entrepreneurial spirit that has driven ISEM’s success so far.

With inputs from WAM