Pursuing a growth strategy in fast-growing markets, Antalis, the largest European group in the distribution of paper and communication support materials, strengthens its positions in France with the acquisition of Paxor, an Industrial Packaging distributor.

Well-known player on the French distribution market in Packaging products and equipments, Paxor recorded a turnover of 28M Euros in 2006 and employs around 100 people. With 5 commercial branches, 3 distribution centres and 10,000 sq. m. storage, the company offers a range of 700 products to more than 6,500 customers.

Following the purchase of the Industrial Packaging activity of Versel end-January, this acquisition significantly strengthens Antalis’ business in France which becomes a major player in the Industrial Packaging distribution market with a turnover of 40M Euros in this segment.

Operating in 16 European countries in the Industrial Packaging distribution, Antalis also strengthens its position in this business area with a turnover of 230M Euros.

« The acquisitions of Brangs+Heinrich in 2004 (#1in Germany) and of Dekker Packaging BV (#1 in Benelux) in 2006 highlighted Antalis’ willingness to rapidly expand in Industrial Packaging and to hold leading positions in this business area.

In France, Paxor allows Antalis  to enlarge its product offer and to further improve its geographic coverage positioning Antalis as a key player to provide companies with high quality packaging solutions ”, says Hervé Poncin, Western Europe Managing Director.