Duplo has acquired UK-based Bar Graphic Machinery (BGM), which specialises in the manufacturing of finishing equipment for the labels and packaging sector.

Located in West Yorkshire, BGM has more than 30 years of experience in designing and producing inspection slitter rewinders, narrow-web label slitter rewinders, rotary die-cutting rewinders, digital label converting finishing systems, and flexible packaging finishing equipment.

This acquisition is said to represent Duplo's entry into the expanding labels market, enhancing its global presence in related print sectors.

Both Duplo and BGM will maintain their operations as separate entities, with Duplo continuing its focus on providing digital print finishing solutions for the office and graphic arts markets.

BGM managing director Annemarie Rhodes said: “Since we formed BGM more than 30 years ago, we have worked hard to develop innovative products and provide excellent customer service, while retaining our family business ethos.

“As we now look at our future development, we are confident that Duplo will continue with these aims, we are really excited for the opportunities that lay ahead.”

BGM will retain its brand identity and operate as an independent division within the Duplo Group, with plans to appoint a new managing director in the future.

Duplo aims to collaborate closely with the BGM team to gain insights into the business, laying the groundwork for a long-term cooperative strategy.

This acquisition aligns with Duplo's objective to invest in complementary sectors and collaborate with companies that prioritise quality and customer value.

Duplo president Hideo Tanaka said: “We are delighted to welcome BGM into the Duplo family. Their reputation for engineering excellence and deep customer commitment aligns perfectly with our values.

“Our role will be to support BGM’s next phase of growth - offering investment, strategic guidance, and access to our global expertise in sales, marketing, R&D [research and development], and manufacturing.”