In a strategic move to strengthen its position in the sign and display sector, Kuhn Corp Print & Packaging has successfully acquired Regal Signs & Designs from its original owners.
The acquisition aligns with Kuhn’s commitment to expanding its signage operations and meeting increasing customer demand. It also marks a period of strategic growth for the business.
Post-acquisition, 30-year-old Regal will continue to operate at the Geebung facility and retain the brand name and staff. Kuhn said the consolidation under the Kuhn brand at the Kuhn facility will be complete by the end of 2024.
Semi-retired founder and owner of Regal, Jan Ford, steps away from the business, while General Manager Ashley Ford continues with Kuhn Corp in a sales role.
Three-fold rationale behind decision
Walter Kuhn says his interest in Regal has been on the cards for a while, with negotiations going back and forth over some time.
He highlights three key reasons behind the acquisition: similar ethos and culture, complementing work types and machinery, and increasing manufacturing capacity. Kuhn Corp’s focus on sustainability also resonates with Regal, with both companies powered by solar energy.
Kuhn says the ethos and the culture of both companies are aligned.
“It fits very much with ours being a long-term family business. They have been going for 30 years, which is the same as us.
“The second is the type of work and the machinery that was there. It dovetailed into what we’re currently doing,” says Kuhn.
The acquisition represents an opportunity for growth for Kuhn Corp in the areas of increased wide-format, flatbed and signage production within Kuhn Corp. Previously, Kuhn Corp’s capability was limited to small-run flatbed work.
Regal is strong on digital printing, including an EDFI Pro 30h system, providing point of sale, displays, billboard and screen-printing solutions. It also offers an established print finishing operation, including cello glazing, varnishing, and applying latex or glue to offset print jobs.
Kuhn says the move signals a period of strategic growth for the business and will position Kuhn Corp as a competitive player in the market.
“Our volumes have increased, so it was either buy another machine or do this,” said Kuhn.
The third is that both companies are focused on establishing a fully sustainable operation for the future and establishing policies and procedures that meet these goals.
Sustainability focus
With an emphasis on sustainability, Kuhn Corp aims to align Regal Signs & Designs with its values to increase its sustainable footprint further.
Kuhn Corp prides itself on its sustainability credentials. Certified SGP 3, the highest certification available, the company boasts 75 per cent production run by solar power. Regal is also powered by solar power, which Kuhn says ties in nicely.
“We’ve had our solar since 2016, so we were well and truly ahead of the game. I think we were the first to do it, but we are not a company that blurts it out,” says Kuhn.
“We just do what we need to do; do the right thing by the environment. Increasing your sustainable footprint is the way to go.”
Regarding how Kuhn Corp’s clients will gain value from the new business structure, Kahn says, “To be honest, all our clients will benefit, but otherwise, it is business as usual.”
Pic L-R Jan Ford, Walter Kuhn, Ashley Ford.
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