Davpack sold to Ratioform Verpackungen GmbH (Takkt AG)

Derby-based Davenport Paper Co Ltd (trading as Davpack) has been acquired by German packaging distributor Ratioform Verpackungen. BCMS advised the shareholders of Davpack on the transaction.

Davpack, a leading UK mail order packaging supplier, was founded as the Davenport Paper Company by Henry Davenport in the late 1960s, originally supplying local retail outlets. This family business expanded significantly under the management of directors Terry, Paul and Carole Davenport and at the time of the transaction in 2012, offered an extensive in-stock range including cardboard boxes, postal packaging, retail and protective packaging.

The acquirer, Ratioform Verpackungen, specialises in the supply of packaging products by mail order to customers across Europe from its base near Munich.

Post-deal developments

“We have been looking for some time to identify a company with the resources to take us to the next stage in our growth,” Davpack managing director Terry Davenport said. “Ratioform Verpackungen offers us the ability to do just that and with it secure the long-term future of all involved in the business.”

The business has continued to grow since the transaction. Together, Davpack and Ratioform formed the Packaging Solutions Division of TAKKT, the second biggest direct supplier of packaging in Europe. The Davpack range now includes over 5,600 stock items and over one million sq ft of warehousing. The range of stock has expanded considerably, and the business has committed further investment to custom solutions and dedicated call-off warehousing for custom boxes, printed corrugated cartons and bespoke packaging.