Duravant announces acquisition of Pattyn to enhance industrial packaging solutions

In a strategic move to strengthen its position in the global packaging automation market, Duravant LLC, a leading global automation provider, has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Pattyn Group BV, a Belgian-based pioneer in packaging automation systems. This acquisition marks a significant step for Duravant, expanding its reach in the food processing, packaging, and material handling industries, while reinforcing its commitment to delivering comprehensive automation solutions globally.

With this acquisition, Duravant aims to integrate Pattyn’s advanced industrial packaging solutions into its extensive portfolio, enhancing its capabilities to serve diverse markets worldwide. The deal is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approvals. Following the transaction, Pattyn will operate as a distinct entity within Duravant’s Packaging Solutions Group, maintaining its management team and operational structure.

Why is Duravant acquiring Pattyn?

The acquisition of Pattyn is a strategic move designed to bolster Duravant’s global presence in the packaging automation systems sector. Pattyn, headquartered in Bruges, Belgium, has been a key player in the packaging industry since 1952. Known for its innovative solutions in bag-in-box packaging, Pattyn offers a wide range of automation technologies, including systems for counting, weighing, filling, and packing applications.

Duravant’s Chairman and CEO, Mike Kachmer, highlighted the synergy between the two companies, noting that Pattyn’s customer-centric approach and impressive growth trajectory align seamlessly with Duravant’s vision. He emphasised that the acquisition will enable Duravant to deliver even greater value to its global customer base by leveraging Pattyn’s expertise in industrial packaging solutions and modular system designs.

This acquisition also positions Duravant to tap into Pattyn’s well-established markets, which span over 80 countries. Pattyn’s robust presence in Europe, alongside its sales and service hubs in North America and Asia, will significantly enhance Duravant’s global reach, allowing it to serve customers more effectively across multiple regions.

How will the acquisition benefit both companies?

For Duravant, integrating Pattyn’s advanced technologies will enhance its ability to offer end-to-end automation solutions. Pattyn’s modular designs and turnkey packaging lines are expected to complement Duravant’s existing capabilities, particularly in the food, agriculture, consumer goods, and logistics sectors.

Pattyn’s leadership team, including Stan Pattyn, Lynn Pattyn, and Chief Operating Officer Benjamin de Chilly, will continue to oversee operations post-acquisition. This continuity ensures that Pattyn’s strong culture of innovation and customer service remains intact, fostering a seamless integration process.

Stan Pattyn expressed confidence in the partnership, stating that joining forces with Duravant will accelerate Pattyn’s growth through increased investments in product development, operational excellence, and expansion into emerging markets. Lynn Pattyn echoed this sentiment, highlighting the opportunity to leverage Duravant’s extensive global network to penetrate new markets and diversify Pattyn’s customer base.

According to Benjamin de Chilly, Duravant’s solid presence in Europe and recent expansions into emerging markets such as Brazil, Mexico, China, and Thailand will provide Pattyn with new growth avenues. Duravant’s portfolio of renowned brands, including Mespack, Votech, Marelec, Foodmate, Henneken, Multiscan, FMH Conveyors, and Motion06, will offer Pattyn valuable synergies and operational support.

What does this mean for the packaging automation industry?

Duravant’s acquisition of Pattyn represents a significant development in the global packaging automation systems industry. As companies across sectors increasingly adopt automation to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs, the demand for advanced industrial packaging solutions is growing rapidly.

This acquisition strengthens Duravant’s ability to meet this demand by offering a broader range of innovative technologies and customised solutions. Pattyn’s expertise in designing modular, flexible packaging systems aligns with current industry trends, where adaptability and efficiency are key competitive advantages.

Furthermore, the deal underscores the ongoing consolidation within the packaging automation sector, as companies seek to expand their capabilities and global footprint through strategic mergers and acquisitions. By combining Duravant’s extensive resources with Pattyn’s specialised expertise, the two companies are well-positioned to drive innovation and set new standards in the industry.

What’s next for Duravant and Pattyn?

The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025, subject to customary regulatory approvals. Post-acquisition, Pattyn will continue to operate independently within Duravant’s Packaging Solutions Group, with its management team leading day-to-day operations.

Pattyn’s 550 employees will join Duravant’s global workforce of over 3,600, creating a dynamic team focused on delivering high-quality automation solutions. The collaboration is anticipated to foster new product developments, enhance service offerings, and strengthen customer relationships worldwide.

Duravant’s strategic focus will remain on expanding its global reach, enhancing its product portfolio, and delivering exceptional value to its customers. The integration of Pattyn’s advanced technologies and market expertise is a key part of this strategy, positioning Duravant as a leader in the future of packaging automation systems.