Brown Machine Group (BMG), Beaverton, Mich., has added to its portfolio of thermoforming equipment manufacturers with its acquisition of GN Thermoforming Equipment.
The group, which also includes Lyle Industries, Nalle Automation Systems, Freeman Co. and aXatronics, designs and manufactures a complete line of continuous and cut-sheet thermoforming equipment. With its acquisition of GN Thermoforming, announced March 1, it gains greater access to global customers in the food packaging industry.
“GN Thermoforming Equipment’s unique technology and talent significantly increase the scope of BMG’s offering to reach small and medium size thermoforming customers,” BMG CEO Greg Wolf said. “BMG has a significant sales and service footprint throughout North America, whereas over half of GN’s sales are outside of North America. This acquisition greatly expands market access and growth for both entities.”
In addition to primary machines, BMG and its companies make tooling, automation and robotic systems, and provide related services including retrofit upgrades, prototyping, process optimization and technical support. The group operates in more than 65 countries.
Based in Canada, GN Thermoforming has offices in the Czech Republic and agents working worldwide. It has been a global leader in contact heat thermoformers and a growing provider of cut-stack thermoforming machines. Its machines are known for quick changeovers. Over the last 35 years, it has exported its equipment to 70 countries.
“BMG’s proven expertise in growth through acquisition is an exciting and significant step for GN Thermoforming Equipment and our employees,” GN Thermoforming President Jerome Romkey said. “Bringing our core technology, equipment and service offerings together, while expanding the overall scope of our customer base, is the next logical step for both companies.”
GN Thermoforming will continue to operate and manufacture under its current name within the context of BMG’s family of companies and remain headquartered in Chester, Nova Scotia.
