Cartonpack takes stake in FIMAT, LEEF acquires sustainable packaging company Wisefood

ITALY – Cartonpack Group, an Italian provider of multimaterial food packaging solutions, has acquired a majority stake in FIMAT, a cardboard packaging producer for the food industry.

This strategic move aims to bolster Cartonpack’s fibre-based packaging portfolio and expand its industrial footprint in Northern Italy and key European markets such as France and Germany.

FIMAT, based in Boffalora sopra Ticino, Italy, will continue its operations under the leadership of the Fornaroli family, maintaining its commitment to high product quality and service standards.

The acquisition aligns with Cartonpack Group’s broader strategy to consolidate its position in the European food packaging sector. Since initiating this plan in 2020, Cartonpack has projected a 2024 pro forma turnover of €200 million (US$209 million).

Cartonpack and FIMAT aim to deliver innovative packaging solutions tailored for the fruit and vegetable sector by combining manufacturing expertise with deep technical knowledge. These offerings will meet the market’s evolving needs with consistency and efficiency.

Committed to sustainability, Cartonpack prioritizes using recycled and recyclable materials, promoting environmentally responsible packaging practices.

LEEF expands with Wisefood acquisition

Meanwhile, Germany-based LEEF, renowned for its eco-friendly tableware and takeaway packaging, has acquired sustainable packaging e-commerce startup Wisefood.

While the deal’s financial details remain undisclosed, this acquisition positions LEEF to strengthen its presence in the sustainable packaging market and diversify its product portfolio.

Wisefood, headquartered in Garching near Munich, specializes in innovative sustainable products such as edible drinking straws, cups, and disposable tableware.

The startup has rapidly grown, achieving six-figure profits and a seven-figure annual turnover since its founding two years ago. Following a successful financing round in 2021, Wisefood’s valuation exceeded €5 million (US$5.2 million).

Claudio Fritz-Vietta, Managing Director of LEEF Holding, commented, “We are happy to welcome Wisefood to the LEEF Group. Restaurants and consumers are strongly demanding sustainable to-go packaging.

“This acquisition will allow us to quickly open new sales channels in retail and e-commerce while also developing a second strong brand.”

Wisefood’s success stems from its robust e-commerce platform, which serves clients in the hotel, restaurant, and café sectors as well as retail giants. The company plans to expand across Europe and develop new sustainable product lines. 

Wisefood founder and managing director Philipp Silbernagel expressed confidence in the partnership, stating, “We have been collaborating successfully with LEEF for several years on palm leaf products.

“This cooperation has always been enjoyable, and we are confident that we have found the perfect buyer in LEEF.”

LEEF is known for its carbon-free and compostable palm leaf packaging solutions, which are ethically produced, fairly traded, and fully circular. This reinforces its commitment to sustainability and innovation.

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