Kodak reaches agreement for sale of its flexographic packaging division

Packaging Solutions

Eastman Kodak Company has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its flexographic packaging division to Montagu Private Equity LLP. After closing, the business will operate as a new standalone company which will develop, manufacture and sell flexographic products, including the flagship Kodak Flexcel NX System, to the packaging print segment.

Under its new ownership, the business will have the same organisational structure, management team and growth culture that has served Kodak’s flexographic packaging division well in recent years. Chris Payne, who has served as president of the division for the last three years, will lead the new company as CEO.

Over the past five years, the flexographic packaging business has grown and thrived within Kodak, and has become a significant player in the packaging print industry. The business will be well positioned to continue delivering solutions to maintain profitable growth for printers in the packaging sector and remain at the leading edge of flexographic print production.

‘This transaction is an important turning point in our transformation and is a significant, positive development for Kodak,’ said Jeff Clarke, CEO. ‘The sale of the flexographic packaging division unlocks value for shareholders and strengthens our financial position by providing a meaningful infusion of cash which allows us to reduce debt, improving the capital structure of the company and enabling greater flexibility to invest in our growth engines.’

Following this transaction, Kodak will continue to focus on the demonstrated growth areas of Sonora environmental plates, enterprise inkjet, workflow software and brand licensing.

The transaction is expected to close in the first half of 2019, subject to the receipt of required regulatory approvals and satisfaction of closing conditions.