Mitsubishi Pencil acquires LAMY brand owner C. Josef Lamy GmbH
Mitsubishi Pencil Co Ltd, a stalwart in the writing instrument industry with a rich history dating back to 1887, has successfully acquired all shares of C. Josef Lamy GmbH, famously known for the LAMY brand. This acquisition marks a significant milestone for both companies, with Mitsubishi Pencil’s annual turnover vastly surpassing that of Lamy, illustrating the scale and potential of this strategic partnership.
The primary motivation behind this transaction stems from Lamy’s search for a robust partner capable of spearheading growth in digital writing and expanding international sales. Mitsubishi Pencil, with its comprehensive experience, expertise, and respect for the LAMY brand’s heritage, has been chosen as the ideal candidate to lead Lamy into a promising future. This merger is expected to maintain the headquarters and production facilities in Heidelberg, Germany, with plans for further investment in the development of the company and brand.
Shigehiko Suhara, the sixth-generation President and CEO of Mitsubishi Pencil, expressed his admiration for the LAMY brand’s history and strength, emphasizing the synergistic vision and corporate cultures of both companies. Vera and Markus Lamy, former co-partners of C. Josef Lamy GmbH, highlighted the importance of finding a company that not only values the LAMY employees but is also committed to opening a new chapter for the brand with a focus on retaining and enhancing the ‘Made in Germany’ quality.
Mitsubishi Pencil, with 137 years of tradition, employs over 2,700 people worldwide and operates 11 production facilities. Known for its leadership in the writing instrument sector, the company’s portfolio includes the renowned uni-ball rollerball pens, Posca water-based ink markers, and Kuru Toga mechanical pencils. The acquisition of Lamy is poised to complement Mitsubishi Pencil’s product range in the premium segment, combining their innovative strengths and tradition for enhanced market presence.
LAMY, a company with deep roots in Heidelberg, Germany, is celebrated for its high-quality designer writing instruments and a distinctive design language established by the LAMY 2000 model. With a workforce of over 340 people and a presence in more than 80 countries, Lamy’s acquisition by Mitsubishi Pencil is set to fortify its position in the global market through technological advancements in digital writing and production innovations.
This acquisition is a strategic maneuver that leverages Mitsubishi Pencil’s innovation, international sales strength, and e-commerce expertise. It promises to accelerate LAMY’s technological development, especially in the digital writing sphere, ensuring the brand’s continued relevance and growth. The partnership between Mitsubishi Pencil and Lamy represents a significant step forward in the writing instrument industry, setting a precedent for future mergers and acquisitions.