UK / NETHERLANDS
On July 11, ITM and SPI Developments Ltd. (SPI) joined forces in ITMGroup. Together, the Dutch-headquartered machine developer and the British adhesives and flavoring application systems specialist have expert knowledge in developing machines for producing special filters, base rods, and next-generation products, like tobacco heating and vaping.
ITMGroup acquired 100% of the shares of SPI from the current management, who will continue to manage the business at the same location. SPI will operate as an independent company within ITMGroup, continuing to serve its traditional customers as before but benefiting from ITMGroup’s worldwide sales and support network.
With the continual increase in product complexity, for example in special filters and tobacco heating products, ITM realized it needed unlimited access to experts in adhesive application systems. SPI is one of the most skilled players in this field, and the company worked closely with ITM in developing new equipment for several years.
SPI’s flavor mixing and application technologies also complement ITM’s equipment platforms and will help ITMGroup in developing flavored products.
SPI’s Henry Tuck commented, “Becoming part of ITMGroup gives SPI direct access to more next-generation product markets and improves our ability to serve and support existing customers and the tobacco industry globally. We will also have more resources to support customer product developments and projects, ensuring more rapid response to market requirements. Most importantly, it also gives the industry and our employees' confidence that SPI will be part of the long-term future of the tobacco world.”
Machine developer ITM has built a solid position supplying high-quality equipment and services to manufacturers of tobacco and next-generation products. “By incorporating the expert knowledge of SPI in our group, we can respond even faster and better to the expectations of our customers,” says board member Michiel van der Sluis. Especially in the developments of tobacco heating products, but as well in special filters and base rod developments, ITM sees a growing need for different and improved glue and flavor application systems.
“These areas of expertise are getting more and more complex. Knowing all aspects of adhesive and flavor application systems is essential for developing the best machines in this area. Employees of SPI possess this knowledge.”
Through the addition of SPI Developments, ITMGroup comprises 11 different companies, with 21 sites and service centers worldwide. The companies each have their own expertise and strengthen each other by combining these capabilities. In total, more than 1,200 employees work for the group, of which the head office is located in Kampen. At SPI Developments, 25 people are employed.