Knowlton Development Corporation (KDC/One) continues its external growth strategy. Already the #1 subcontractor for the cosmetics industry in North America, the company, headquartered in Longueil, Quebec, continues to expand its manufacturing capabilities in Europe with the acquisition of the manufacturing business of the UK-based Swallowfield Group. The GBP 35 million transaction does include Swallowfield’s owned brands division, which will now be based in Teddington and is expected to change its name to Brand Architekts Group.
"Following KDC/One’s successful acquisition of Paris-based Alkos Group earlier this month, we are confident that Swallowfield’s operations will further enhance our strategic presence in the region and solidify our leadership in beauty, health and personal care around the world," explained Nicholas Whitley, President and CEO of KDC/One.
With more than 140 years of experience, Swallowfield is an established leader in the personal care and beauty space. Swallowfield’s Manufacturing business focuses on the development, formulation, and supply of products for customers which include many of the world’s leading brands. Having built out key specialist product areas, Swallowfield’s differentiated manufacturing offering includes aerosols, hot pour products, cosmetic pencils, fragrance and gifting. Headquartered in Wellington, UK, the Manufacturing business has approximately 560 employees and operates across three main facilities in Europe (two in the United Kingdom, in Wellington and Bideford, and one in Czech Republic, in Tabor), as well as a sourcing office in China and sales offices in Paris and New York.
"The Company’s international capabilities make it a natural complement to KDC/One, and its strong reputation for quality, service and innovation matches KDC/One’s own dedication to high-touch innovation, operational excellence and speed to market. We believe that by joining a larger, focused entity, our Manufacturing business will move forward with a clearer vision for the future while protecting the value of the business," said Brendan Hynes, Chairman of Swallowfield.
The transaction, which is expected to close in August of 2019, is subject to the approval of shareholders of Swallowfield. Upon transaction closing, the entire manufacturing business and associated assets will be wholly owned by KDC/One and operate as KDC/One Swallowfield. Furthermore, Swallowfield’s Matthew Gazzard will be appointed as KDC/One Swallowfield President and Jane Fletcher to be KDC/One Swallowfield Sales & Marketing Director.
Tim Perman will remain Chief Executive Officer of Swallowfield’s brand business to be renamed Brand Architekts Group.
