The Swedish giant said Astepo’s know-how in such products as bag-in-box fillers had also been a driver in realising the take over.
The niche supplier is recognized for its “solid know-how in aseptic technology, with key products such as bag-in-box fillers and heat exchangers targeting the global fruit juice concentrate industry”, said Alfa Laval.
“Food has been one of our three major focuses over many years, making up between 20-25 per cent of our business,” said Peter Torstensson senior vice president. “In this case we have taken the initiative to strengthen our position in food use concentrates. In particular, their bag-in-box technology and products will complement our existing operations.”
The Parma-based company employs 20 people and last year had sales of over €7m. The deal was completed last week on 1 April.
In an official statement today, Alfa Laval president and CEO said: “The enhanced offering in combination with our strong local presence will create new opportunities.”
However, the company declined to give more details on its plans for its new acquisition.
“There are a lot of ideas about this but that is something for the future,” said Torstensson. “Our first priority is to put things together and merge the two different companies. We are pleased to have closed the deal and look forward to develop this.”
Astepo was founded in 1986 and specialises in thermal food processing, packing and aseptic lines. Alfa Laval is a global provider of heat transfer, separation and fluid handling technologies.