3 November 2011

Guala Closures acquires ASA screw cap business

Guala Closures Australia and ASA Pty Ltd are pleased to announce that Guala Closures has acquired the ASA screw cap business. This transaction is subject to the approval of the ACCC.

In the coming months ASA will transition production of screw caps from their current Adelaide facility, with all customer requirements being fulfilled by Guala Closures at their extensive production facility in West Footscray, Victoria. ASA and Guala will work closely together to ensure all customer requirements are managed smoothly during this transition.

ASA will continue to produce sparkling wine hoods and other non-metal closure still wine capsules, under the original Smith Family ownership at its Regency Park, SA facility.

Guala Closures has a long history of supplying a complete range of metal closures to the Australian wine industry. At its West Footscray plant, Guala has a fully integrated facility under one roof, consisting of flat sheet printing lines and extensive side decorating lines, including conventional printing, hot foil, and various other embellishments and embossing capabilities.

ASA's screw cap plant and equipment will provide Guala with further enhanced decorating options and capacity when transferred to West Footscray.

Mr David Stevenson, Managing Director of Guala Closures, Australia & New Zealand stated, "This acquisition provides Guala Closures the opportunity to further strengthen its commitment to the Australian wine industry. It is also an exciting period for Guala with a number of new products designed specifically for the wine industry to be announced in the coming months."

ASA Managing Director, Mr Troy Smith stated, "The opportunity to work with Guala will allow ASA customers to benefit from Guala Closures' strong supply chain, technical and product development capabilities; areas which are crucial for Australian wineries to remain competitive both locally and in export markets."