Storopack acquires long-term trade partner Alternative 1999

With the purchase of Alternative 1999, Storopack, a specialist in protective packaging, has gained a foothold in the Italian market. As a result of this acquisition, effective on Jan. 1, 2015, Storopack has its own subsidiary in the Italian market, which will improve access to local customers with its protective packaging solutions  and strengthen Storopack's presence in Italy.

Alternative was founded in 1999 in Italy, and has been  a trade partner for the distribution of Storopack paper padding, air cushions and foam packaging systems since 2008. Over the next few weeks, the company name will be changed to Storopack Italia s.r.l. as part of the integration.

The company's offices and service center are located in Cento, near Bologna. In 2014, Alternative achieved total sales of close to €6 million. And this year, Storopack expects a further increase in sales.

Company founder Andrea Salustro has successfully managed the company since 1999. Salustro will assist Storopack during the company's integration into the corporate group and will continue to be responsible for activities in Italy.

"The main objective of the acquisition is to increase the market share of our protective packaging solutions," explains Birger Johnsen, President of Storopack's EMEA Packaging Division. "The strengthened presence, along with our well-established sales team, creates the platform for higher growth potential, stronger market positioning as a supplier of protective packaging and system solutions in the Italian market.

Storopack, which is based in Metzingen, Germany, is a group of companies operating around the world. The family business was founded in 1874. Today, the Packaging Division is represented with offices in Europe, North America, South America and Asia. Through trade partners, Storopack products are available in more than 40 countries.