Paper, Plastics & Packaging

Beacon was engaged by a manufacturer of plastics and acrylic fabrication with in-house vacuum forming and CNC capabilities. The business owned one of the largest forming ovens in the GTA. Through 30 years of industry experience, the business had developed a strong brand reputation among suppliers and customers in the industry. The owner of the business at the time was seeking an early retirement due to medical reasons. Due to Beacon’s strong presence in Ontario and experience working related manufacturing businesses, Beacon was chosen as the exclusive broker and provided sell-side transaction advisory services through the entire sale process.

Beacon began by compiling a fairness opinion to determine the business’ true fair market value and proceeded to compile deliverables and confidentially market the mandate to potential buyers. The business had invested in state-of-the-art equipment and machinery, giving it exceptional in-house manufacturing capabilities. Due to the owner’s health and condition, it was crucial that the transfer of ownership take place as soon as possible. Beacon realized the urgency of the situation and allocated a large portion of its resources to this mandate, making it a priority. Through our large network of buyers and industry professionals, we were able to attract several buyers for the business. Based on the seller’s criteria and vision, as well as our financial acumen, we were able to pre-screen buyers and solicit offers from serious buyers.

This industry includes paper mills, manufacturers of paper and paper products, resin and plastic producers and manufacturers of other plastic products, as well as packaging and stationery products wholesalers. Primary producers in this industry rely on resource suppliers like chemical, petrochemical, and energy and wood pulp producers as well as waste recycling facilities. The industry is in its mature stage and the demand for traditional paper products has already begun to decline due to digitalization and an increasing shift towards online resources. The paper and plastics manufacturing industry has high barriers to entry due to heavy regulation and high capital intensity. The ease of entry is higher for wholesalers and stationery retailers as a result of which players in this sub-industry face higher competition and more pricing pressure. Going forward the demand for both paper and plastic products is set to steadily decline due to environmental consciousness and green initiatives. As governments implement tax incentives for eco-friendly measures, corporations will continue to reduce usage of paper and plastic. The industry will continue to witness high consolidation and automation as players attempt to increase margins through reduced labor costs and synergies.