F.L. Smithe Acquires Aquaflex; Envelope Machinery OEM Diversifies with Narrow Web Press Manufacturer Purchase

Published: March 15, 2004, By PRESS RELEASE

DUNCANSVILLE, PA, USA—The F.L. Smithe Machine Company, Inc., reports it has acquired the assets of Aquaflex, a Montreal, QC, Canada-based manufacturer of narrow web presses. According to Smithe, combined, the companies have more than 125 years of experience building high-end, web-based converting equipment.

Says F.L. Smithe president Edgar Smithe, “We’re very excited to complete this transaction on the eve of our 100th anniversary, as this allows us to diversify into the label and flexible packaging markets. Aquaflex makes an excellent product that will complement our line nicely. We look forward to building upon both companies’ history—offering the highest quality products in our respective markets.”

Aquaflex is a multi-national manufacturer of flexographic printing and converting systems. According to Smithe, Aquaflex has a special focus on printer profitability; the press manufacturer blends advanced technology and efficient workflow systems to create a balanced and stable platform for the packaging industry. The now-owned F.L. Smithe narrow web OEM manufactures printing and converting systems ranging from 10 in. to 26 in. wide for the tag and label, folding carton, and flexible packaging markets.

Established in 1904, F.L. Smithe Machine Co. is manufacturer of machine products for the global envelope-manufacturing industry. Visit F.L. Smithe at flsmithe.com. For more about envelope manufacturing and F.L. Smithe's 100th anniversary, be sure to check out the April 2004 edition of PFFC.