Mike Apperson, CEO of Resource Label Group provides keynote on the Future of Labeling and Packaging

AWAVirtual™ Hosts M&A Executive Forum on the Packaging and Labeling Sector

As part of the AWAVirtual™ event series, Corey Reardon, CEO & President of AWA Alexander Watson and Associates (AWA) hosted on 7 June the Mergers & Acquisition Executive Forum for the Packaging and Labeling sector.  The Forum brought together C-level executives, private equity firms, investment bankers and suppliers to create an industry focused platform for those involved or interested in the sector.  Virtual sessions were conducted on Consolidation in the Label Industry, Deal Flow, and Sustainability in M&A.

Keynote
Mike Apperson, CEO/President of Resource Label Group closed the event as a Keynote with a discussion on the Future of Labeling and Packaging. Apperson discussed the continued consolidation of the North American Label Market and the outlook for M&A Activity. He cited that the base fundamentals of the label and packaging industry remain strong, and trends favor continued growth.
“There is continued excitement for consolidation in the label industry,” Apperson stated. “However, there is a need for owners considering a succession plan, to look to the future. Multiples have been at historic levels, but rising interest rates and an impending recession will start to push multiples and valuation down” he added.

Throughout the Forum, panel and round table discussions covered a broad base of issues, focused on deal flows, sustainability and industry consolidation. Thomas Blaige, Blaige & Company was joined by Ron Giordano, former Chairman, President & CEO of H.S. Crocker for an Interview Session on Consolidation in the Industry, followed by a Panel Discussion lead and moderated by Jonathan White, Managing Director Mazzone & Associate on “Deal Flow & Future Expectations”, joined by Brandon Coffey, Wells Fargo Securities, Douglas Horn, Clairvest, Nick Mockett, Moorgate Capital, and Damon Thome, Mason Wells.

Paul Brauss, CEO of Brauss Consulting provided insights on M&A and transitioning of family owned businesses, in a presentation titled “Dare to Improve your Legacy”, based on the best-selling book of the same name. Prior to the End Note Presentation by Michael Apperson, an enlightening discussion on Sustainability in M&A with Arthur Erdem from EPEF, Natasha Li from Ares Private Equity Group, and Brian Flynn from William Blair highlighted the importance of Sustainability and ESG within the M&A environment and future deals.

This year’s Sponsors: Blaige & Company, Clairvest, Mazzone & Associates, Moorgate Capital, and William Blair, join AWA to thank the nearly 200 participants and hope to see you in June 2023 for the next AWAVirtual™ M&A Executive Forum.

About AWA
Since 1971, AWA Alexander Watson & Associations (AWA) has been helping companies in the Specialty Paper, Film, Packaging Coating & Converting Industry to make the right decisions by providing industry-specific market intelligence. For more information please visit: awa-bv.com