APPLIED Adhesives has entered an exclusive distribution arrangement in the US with Henkel’s packaging adhesives unit.

Under the agreement, Applied will handle US distribution for Henkel’s flexible packaging range.

The arrangement links Henkel’s portfolio with Applied’s sales, technical support and logistics operations.

Henkel’s packaging adhesives business has operated in flexible packaging for more than 30 years, with a portfolio that includes adhesive and coating products.

Henkel Adhesive Technologies flexible packaging business director James Cooley commented: "Applied's strong reputation as an adhesive distributor, equipment provider, and technical partner makes them an ideal channel partner for Henkel in the US market.

"This exclusive partnership enables us to expand our US reach while ensuring customers receive the high level of service and technical support required in flexible packaging applications."

The initial emphasis will be on converters in flexible packaging serving the food and drink, health and beauty, and pet product markets.

Applied market development director Lisa Fieldhouse said: "This partnership represents an important step forward for APPLIED as we continue to invest in growth opportunities that deliver meaningful value to our customers.

"By combining Henkel's trusted flexible packaging technologies with APPLIED's local inventory, technical expertise, and service flexibility, we are well positioned to support converters with the performance, reliability, and responsiveness they expect."

Last year, private equity company Arsenal Capital Partners sold Applied Adhesives to Bertram Capital.