Primary Capital Partners is pleased to announce the sale of Metamark, the market leading supplier of materials and accessories to the global graphics sector, to UPM Raflatac, a subsidiary of NASDAQ Helsinki-listed UPM-Kymmene Oyj Corporation (“UPM”).

Metamark manufactures self-adhesive colour and digital print material, laminates and wrapping films from its state-of-the-art facility in Lancaster (UK) selling directly to over 9,000 customers in the UK and to over 100 distribution partners globally. Its materials are used extensively in the signage, graphics, automotive and architectural sectors. Metamark has also developed market leading ESG credentials through its patented Metastream recycling initiative and in achieving bronze Ecovadis accreditation. The transaction will complement UPM Raflatac’s product offerings and accelerate growth for the UPM Graphics business unit.

Primary backed the Metamark management team in a buy-out from its founders in 2017. Since then the business has experienced significant UK and international organic growth, driven by investment in new product development, digitisation of sales channels and expansion in international markets. It has also made the highly successful acquisitions of Trimwel (based in Dublin, Ireland), Scotmark, Fleet Design and Vuflex which have increased Metamark’s regional and product footprint.

Iain Wolstenholme, Partner at Primary who led the original deal, commented “Metamark has proved to be an outstanding investment for Primary and its investors. Over the course of our investment we have helped transform and grow Metamark from a UK-centric, privately-owned business to a global challenger brand in the graphic material sector. Our partnership and alignment with a talented management team have allowed us to execute an ambitious plan, and ultimately find an excellent strategic home with UPM Raflatac. We are delighted with the successful outcome for all parties, and proud to have been associated with Metamark over the last eight years. We wish everyone at Metamark and UPM all the best on the next stage of their growth story.”

Paul French (Executive Chair) and Phil Wild (CEO) commented, “Since the MBO in 2017 when Primary invested we have been on a transformational journey with our investors fully supportive of the management team and our growth strategy. We are delighted to have completed a transaction that allows Metamark to continue its successful journey under the new ownership. The Metamark management team would like to take this opportunity to thank Primary for its support, strategic guidance and belief in our business from the very first day of our partnership.”