Multiplay Group, an Abu Dhabi-based investment holding company, announced today its intention to acquire a majority stake in ISEM Group, a leader in the European packaging sector, subject to obtaining the necessary regulatory approvals.
Upon the completion of this transaction, Multiplay Group will hold a 60.8% stake in ISEM, while Peninsula Capital and minority investors will share the remaining 39.2%.
This deal marks the beginning of a strategic partnership that combines Multiplay’s platform-building approach and strong capital with Peninsula’s deep industry expertise and dominance in Southern Europe.
The two partners will collaborate to bolster ISEM’s leading position and accelerate its global expansion while upholding the company’s long-standing values of craftsmanship, design excellence, and customer trust.
This acquisition signifies Multiplay Group’s expansion into the packaging industry by creating a consumer-focused fifth sector within its portfolio, enhancing strategic integration with its existing businesses in beauty and apparel.
Founded in 1949 and headquartered in Bologna, Italy, ISEM Group exemplifies the value of the “Made in Italy” brand, renowned globally for its quality, innovation, and strong connections with key clients in the luxury goods sector.
Major global clients include companies like LVMH, Kiko, Gucci, L’Oréal, Puig, and Coty Lancaster.
ISEM Group produces rigid and folding boxes, tissue paper, and custom packaging bags, with a significant industrial presence spanning 11 factories across over 100,000 square meters.
Samia Bouazza, the CEO, noted that with high automation and strong foundations, ISEM presents an ideal option for enhancing the group’s investment portfolio.
She added that this acquisition, alongside Peninsula Capital and ISEM’s management, is expected to create new opportunities to enhance competitive advantages, increase added value, and foster synergy in the beauty and apparel sectors.
This marks Multiplay Group’s second acquisition in Europe this year as part of its ongoing efforts to expand its global operations, with company revenues projected to triple and EBITDA set to quadruple from 2021 to 2024, supported by a robust customer base of leading companies.
Borja Prado, co-founder of Peninsula Capital, expressed pride in the achievements with ISEM, which has evolved into one of Europe’s leading packaging companies and a preferred partner for global brands in the beauty and fashion sectors. Since the beginning of their partnership, group revenues have tripled due to strategic expansion and well-planned acquisitions, reflecting ISEM’s strength and excellence.
Francesco Bentucci, CEO of ISEM Group, welcomed Multiplay as a new major contributor to ISEM, alongside Peninsula and existing management. He stated that this significant step aligns perfectly with the group’s long-term vision and growth strategy aimed at building a globally leading industrial group capable of supporting its clients comprehensively.
He further mentioned that the investment from Multiplay will enhance ISEM’s industrial platform and accelerate its global growth, enabling the company to better serve its clients with greater capability, flexibility, technological excellence, while maintaining the entrepreneurial spirit and human values that underpin its success.