Hills Numberplates strengthens European presence with key acquisition
BIRMINGHAM-based numberplate manufacturer, Hills Numberplates has strengthened its position in the European marketplace with a key acquisition.
Hills has acquired French numberplate manufacturer Faab Fabricauto from 3M’s Traffic Safety and Security Division for an undisclosed sum in a deal part advised out of Birmingham.
Faab Fabricauto is a leading manufacturer of license plates and signage solutions with facilities in Bourg-en-Bresse and Macon. The purchase by Hills sees the UK manufacturer move closer to its ambition of becoming a major global player in the number plate market.
The sale will see all 150 workers transition with the business to assist in Hills future growth.
Faab Fabricauto has a 50-year history in the vehicle identification solutions industry, with a focus in license-plate manufacturing. The company also provides serigraphy and number-printing services for automotive, graphic communications, signage and industrial sectors.
Incorporated in 1927, Hills Numberplates trades primarily as a manufacturer of number plate components, ready-made registration plates and the latest number plate manufacturing systems.
Richard Taffinder, managing director, Hills Numberplates said: “Hills has a long-held desire for international growth within its numberplate division and the decision to purchase Faab Fabricauto made this ambition a reality. Hills are excited by the chance to build on the strong foundations set by Faab Fabricauto and to continue the program of continuous development in both the French and UK marketplace.
“Hills has a tradition of innovation and has been servicing the UK market since 1927, hence the opportunity to expand into France and work alongside 3M as our dedicated materials supplier is very attractive. Not only will it deliver a formidable platform for success but generate a combined output by Hills group in excess of 19 million plates per annum.”
The transaction was signed by 3M France and followed consultation with the relevant French Works Councils.
The Birmingham office of law firm Irwin Mitchell advised Hills on the deal.
Rob Laugharne, a senior associate in the law firm’s Corporate team, said: “We have supported Hills Numberplates on a number of strategic acquisitions so far this year and we are delighted to advise them on this latest deal. The business has a very exciting future ahead and is in a very strong position to build and become a genuine global player in the sector.”
