Bosch Packaging Technology (boschpackaging.com), a leading supplier of process and packaging technology, plans to acquire Osgood Industries, Inc., based in Oldsmar, Florida. Agreements to this effect were signed on February 6, 2015. Bosch thereby intends to further strengthen its engagement in the liquid food industry in North America and additional markets. With sales of approximately 26 million USD in 2014, Osgood Industries employs about 150 associates. The transaction is pending the successful completion of all necessary antitrust approvals. The purchase price was not disclosed.

Well-known worldwide in packaging industry

Osgood Industries is well-known in the packaging industry for its expertise in developing, manufacturing and servicing complete rotary and linear machinery lines. They accurately fill pre-formed containers with products which require clean or ultraclean hygienic standards. This comprises both standardized and customized applications. The types of foods typically packaged in this classification include ice cream, yogurt, dessert, salad and cheese, among others. The acquisition will involve a comprehensive service portfolio of maintenance, spare parts, customer engineering, rebuilds and retrofits of existing equipment.

Important step in PA 2020 strategy

“With Osgood Industries, we are further adding to our strategic activities in the area of liquid food,” says Friedbert Klefenz, president of Bosch Packaging Technology. “This is an important step for us on our journey to fulfilling our PA 2020 strategy, so we are eager to complete this transaction. The experience of the Osgood team, their dedication to customer satisfaction and their expertise in this growing segment make this a much-valued addition to the Bosch team.”

Global sales channels help growing in liquid food market

Martin J. Mueller, president of Osgood Industries: “For almost four decades Osgood Industries has taken pride in developing the highest-quality products for our customers. As a family-owned and operated business, we look forward to joining Bosch, with its worldwide sales channels and rich heritage. Bosch has demonstrated its commitment to growing in this market and we are proud to be part of that growth.”

Bosch and Osgood Industries have an already established business relationship. Osgood Industries is a North American sales agent for Bosch Packaging Technology, representing Bosch’s portfolio of thermoforming, fill- and seal-technology. The planned acquisition of Osgood Industries follows two major strategic acquisitions Bosch has recently made:

 In August 2013, Bosch acquired Tecsor Machines et Systèmes S.A.S., based in Meyreuil near Marseille, which develops and sells machinery for making and filling polyethylene (PET) containers for liquid and paste-like foodstuffs.

  In October 2012, Bosch acquired Ampack in Königsbrunn, Germany. Its portfolio includes filling machinery for cups and bottles. This machinery is mainly used to fill and package highly sensitive foodstuffs such as dairy products, baby food, and hospital food.