BJ Ball is acquiring West Australian graphics distributor West Graphics Print Supplies, in a move that will propel the paper giant into the Perth inks and consumables market.
The deal comes into effect next Monday, and will see the paper merchant offer distribution to the WA market through West Graphics of the Huber Group range of inks, and a suite of coatings, varnishes, press chemistry, blankets and other specialty products.
BJ Ball says the acquisition will drive increased technical support and sales across its operations in Australia – which now includes Perth and wider WA. It also makes BJ Ball a complete national distributor.
The value of the acquisition has not been disclosed, and it is unknown whether West Graphics will leave its facility in Osborne Park, WA.
Craig Brown, chief executive of BJ Ball says, “BJ Ball and Huber Group, together with the West Graphics business are committed to the market for the long term and together we will try and bring a consistency of quality and dependability within the Asia Pacific region.”
West Graphic’s products will be immediately added to BJ Ball’s inventory replenishment system iConsignment. The acquisition complements BJ Ball’s recent installation of ink dispensing equipment in its NSW facility.
[Related: BJ Ball takes sales from Yenom]
Owner of West Graphics Glen Fretwell says several long term employees will remain with the business following its sale to BJ Ball, and says the acquisition was the right choice for future expansion and strategic development in both companies.
‘BJ Ball is the logical partner to nurture and grow the business we have developed over the past 25 years,” says Fretwell.
“We are delighted to see the business move into the BJ Ball group who, together with our long term key staff, will continue to serve and support our suppliers and customers.”
Sam Varughese, general manager graphics for BJ Ball, says, “We want to be the preferred supplier to our customers and a broad product offering combined with outstanding technical service is important to the print industry."
"Our acquisition of West Graphics and the alliance with Huber Group allows us to offer our customers the widest and most comprehensive choice of high quality best in class products," adds Varughese.
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