Elliott Baxter & Company expands reach with acquisition of Irish paper merchant Realt Paper

IRELAND – Elliott Baxter & Company (EBB) has bolstered its operations through the acquisition of Irish company Realt Paper, marking a strategic move to strengthen its foothold in the Irish market.

The acquisition, completed on February 29^th, underscores EBB’s deepened commitment to Ireland and positions it as the largest merchant in the region.

With the purchase of 100% of Realt Paper’s shares, EBB anticipates a substantial increase in its combined group turnover in Ireland, estimated to be around €50 million (US$54.69m).

Realt Paper, boasting a turnover of €17 million (£14.5 million), will continue its operations from its base in Swords, County Dublin, with all 17 staff retained and the existing management team staying intact. Meanwhile, EBB Ireland will maintain its operations in Rathcoole and Belfast.

Looking ahead to 2024, EBB plans to integrate Realt Sales within its logistics network, aiming to offer an enhanced service and product range to the Irish market.

This integration will empower the group to provide a broader product portfolio while ensuring high stock levels locally, thereby better serving the print, paper, and packaging community in Ireland.

Matt Elliott, EBB group managing director, expressed excitement about the acquisition, highlighting Realt’s stellar reputation and professionalism.

He emphasized the shared values between the two companies and underscored the potential for improved service and choice for Irish customers.

Ger Barron, managing director of Realt Paper, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the company’s success over its 43-year history and its readiness to embark on a new chapter as part of the EBB family.

He stressed the alignment of cultures between Realt and EBB, signaling a promising future ahead.

Chris Sandwell, EBB Group sales and marketing director, emphasized the strategic significance of the acquisition, emphasizing EBB’s commitment to the Irish market and its dedication to driving business growth in the region.

He highlighted the potential for synergy between the two entities and the opportunities presented by the ever-evolving paper and board market.

EBB plans to rebrand Realt under the EBB umbrella in the coming months, further solidifying its presence in the Irish market. With a combined workforce of 50 in Ireland and 280 across the EBB Group, the acquisition marks a significant milestone in EBB’s expansion strategy.

 This acquisition follows EBB’s recent acquisition of Broadgate Paper in January, reinforcing its commitment to growth and innovation in the industry.

For all the latest packaging and printing industry news from Africa and the World, subscribe to our NEWSLETTER, follow us on LinkedIn and subscribe to our YouTube channel.