The company “2 Point Zero,” listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange, has officially announced the completion of its acquisition of a majority stake in ISEM Group, a leading European firm in packaging that serves industries such as beauty, fashion, luxury goods, and dietary supplements.
The transaction was valued at 704 million dirhams and was financed through a combination of secondary and primary capital, with the aim of accelerating growth and expanding both organically and inorganically.
Following the acquisition, “2 Point Zero” now holds a 60.8% stake in ISEM Group, while “Peninsula Capital” and minority investors own the remaining 39.2%.
This acquisition marks the beginning of a strategic partnership between “2 Point Zero” and “Peninsula Capital,” as both parties plan to enhance ISEM’s prominent position by broadening its product categories and geographic presence. They will integrate artificial intelligence technologies and digital solutions throughout the company, from manufacturing to customer relationship management, while also supporting targeted acquisition efforts aimed at growing the company’s industrial base and enhancing its production capabilities and product variety.
Samiya Bouazza, CEO of “2 Point Zero,” stated: “Finalizing this acquisition is a significant milestone in our ambitious global development plans, creating a scalable platform in the packaging sector, which will become the sixth consumer-focused industry in our portfolio. During our visit to ISEM’s facilities, we were impressed by the high level of automation and advanced robotic assembly systems, as well as the modern manufacturing infrastructure that boosts operational efficiency and maintains the highest quality standards.”
She added: “Our entry into the packaging sector coincides with its robust annual compound growth across various sub-sectors, including food, pharmaceuticals, and luxury products. With our proven track record in executing strategic mergers and acquisitions, leveraging AI technologies, and enhancing operational integration, we have all the necessary components to support ISEM in accelerating its international expansion, as well as in primary and secondary packaging, ultimately delivering long-term returns to our shareholders.”
Critical Move
The completion of this acquisition is a crucial step in “2 Point Zero’s” expansion into the packaging domain, establishing it as the sixth consumer-focused sector within its portfolio, complementing its current business in beauty and clothing. Founded in 1949 and headquartered in Bologna, Italy, ISEM Group exemplifies the value of “Made in Italy,” renowned for its quality, innovation, and strong ties with key clients in the luxury sector. Its impressive client list includes major brands such as LVMH, Kiko, Gucci, L’Oréal, Puig, and Coty Lancaster. ISEM Group specializes in producing rigid and folding boxes, tissue paper, and packaging bags, boasting a significant industrial presence across 11 factories covering more than 100,000 square meters.
Expansion Plans
Borja Prado, co-founder of Peninsula Capital, remarked: “The completion of this acquisition marks the beginning of a new and important phase for ISEM, establishing it as a preferred partner in packaging for leading luxury brands worldwide. This investment will provide the necessary capital, strategic support, and international reach to expedite its expansion plans. We are confident that our partnership with “2 Point Zero” will enhance its capabilities significantly, creating a transformative impact not just on ISEM, but also on the value delivered to its clients. We look forward to collaborating towards a new phase of business growth and expansion.”
Direct Commitment
Francesco Pintucci, CEO of ISEM Group, expressed: “Today marks a new chapter in our journey as we become better equipped to broaden our service offerings and strengthen our presence while maintaining the precision, attention to detail, and direct commitment that characterize ISEM’s operations. The expertise of our teams and established relationships with leading global luxury brands will remain central to our strategy and growth. With our collaboration with “2 Point Zero” and “Peninsula Capital,” we now have the supportive framework to confidently expand our global presence.”
Legal advice for “2 Point Zero” and Peninsula Capital regarding acquisition aspects was provided by the leading global law firm Hogan Lovells, covering matters related to mergers and acquisitions, foreign direct investment, and competition issues. Additionally, “Legance” advised Peninsula Capital on its reinvestment in ISEM and the shareholders’ agreements with “2 Point Zero,” while “Van Campen Liem” handled the transaction structuring. Conversely, consultancy on the sale operations was provided by “Gatti Pavesi Bianchi Ludovici” and “Herbert Smith Freehills Kramer.”