Romo Durable Graphics acquires Chicago Decal Co.

Romo Durable Graphics (De Pere, WI), a manufacturer of custom durable graphics and printer of pressure-sensitive and in-mold decals and labels, announced the acquisition of Chicago Decal Co., also a leading graphics printer in the decal and product identification market. The parent company of Chicago Decal, Chicago Freight Car, made a strategic business redirection that does not include the printing industry, and Romo saw this as an opportunity to merge with a company with complimentary capabilities that will bring value to its business. The acquisition brings Romo Durable Graphics increased market strength and access to enhanced capabilities, such as digital options, for its decal and inmold decorating solutions.

“Chicago Decal and Romo Durable Graphics have been competing respectfully for years with similar products and capabilities,” said Jonathan Darling, president of Romo Durable Graphics, in a prepared statement. “The opportunity for the acquisition presented itself, and we are grateful for the opportunity this has given both companies and we look forward to expanding.”

Both companies have been in business for decades. Romo has been providing its custom graphics products for 57 years. Chicago Decal has been in business for more than 70 years. Chicago Decal has a division, G.B. Frank International, a leading provider of signage to the credit card industry. That division’s customers will continue to be serviced in the same way, with the same products, people, and quality standards, according to information supplied by Romo, which acquired the G.B. Frank International division as well.

According to a company spokesperson, a 60-day transition period that began June 1 will include products being shipped from Chicago Decal’s facility in Burr Ridge, IL to Romo’s plant in De Pere. The Burr Ridge facility will be closed at the end of July. However, said the spokesperson, the sales and customer service team from Chicago Decal will remain in tact, with a sales office being established in the Chicago area. This will allow Chicago Decal’s customers to continue their relationship with the same sales and customer service personnel.

Frank Riggio, president of Chicago Decal, stated, “Though we are decreasing our operations in Burr Ridge, we are pleased to be acquired by a company that is confident Chicago Decal employees and capabilities will enhance its business. Joining forces with Romo Durable Graphics will allow us to meet the changing needs of customers.”

Currently, Chicago Decal has 40 employees, and Romo employs 75. As Romo goes through the transition, the company plans to look at other employees whose skills and talents might be required at Romo’s De Pere facility. —Clare Goldsberry