Through the acquisition of Denmark-based PBI-Dansensor A/S (Dansensor), MOCON will supplement its Package Testing line of products and add to its existing headspace analysers and controls and package leak detectors lines.
The $20m takeover will see US-based MOCON fill the current gap in its gas mixers product line, while boosting its presence in Europe and the ever-expanding MAP technology market.
MOCON expects to close the acquisition on or around 2 April 2012.
“One-stop shop”
“Yes, definitely [MOCON could become a ‘one-stop shop’ for food and beverage MAP demands],” MOCON Inc. president and CEO Robert Demorest told FoodProductionDaily.com.
“The industry has told us repeatedly that they prefer to purchase MAP capital equipment from one good supplier, when possible, in the MAP area especially, as the food manufacturers often do not have the in-house expertise that is needed to properly gas flush packages with inert gases and mixtures.”
“Dansensor is a very complimentary fit for us, as they manufacture MAP technology systems used to extend and enhance the shelf life of perishable products. They are the marker leader in measuring the head space oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other gas concentrations in food packaging, both on-line and off-line.”
“We wanted to expand our product offerings to include a broader line for our food and beverage customers, particularly in the meat industry,” said Demorest.
European market boost
The majority of MOCON’s Package Testing product sales have, traditionally, been from within the US, while Dansensor’s have seen sales focussed outside of the US.
MOCON hopes to significantly expand its presence in Europe and in the MAP technology market through the agreed takeover
“We already have a large presence in Europe, but not in MAP technology. So, yes, this is part of our intent, to continue to offer more and more products down our existing pipeline. In this regard, we picked up a number of excellent sales and service operations in Europe and elsewhere with the Dansensor acquisition,” he added.
“We already offer the broadest line to the food industry in the film and package permeation testing area, which are vitally important measurements for the safe packaging of perishable foods.”
“Now, we will be also offering a very broad line of MAP (Modified Atmosphere Packaging) mixers, controls, analysers, both off and on-line, and package leak detectors. It is our belief that the barrier packaging industry will benefit strongly from our increased sales coverage, product mix, and service reach,” the MOCON chief concluded.