Duravant, an engineered equipment and automation solutions provider, has reached a definitive agreement to acquire Pattyn Group, a designer and manufacturer of packaging automation systems.

Pattyn, based in Bruges, Belgium, has more than seven decades of experience in machinery design and turnkey systems for weighing, filling, and packing technologies, catering to both the food and nonfood sectors.

Operating from six manufacturing sites across Belgium, France, and Spain, Pattyn also has sales and service divisions in North America and Asia.

The company was founded by Jean Pattyn in 1952 and subsequently expanded under Paul Pattyn in 1976.

The acquisition by Duravant represents a strategic move to broaden its packaging machinery portfolio with Pattyn's engineered solutions.

Subject to customary regulatory approvals, the transaction is anticipated to be finalised in the second quarter (Q2) of 2025.

Post-acquisition, Pattyn will operate as a distinct entity within Duravant’s Packaging Solutions Group.

Duravant chair and CEO Mike Kachmer said: “We are extremely excited to partner with Pattyn. Pattyn has a rich history delivering high-quality solutions to a global customer base in over 80 countries.

“Their impressive growth is attributed to their unwavering focus on customer satisfaction and building lasting relationships, which aligns perfectly with Duravant’s dedication to ensuring customer success.”

The current Pattyn Group management team will continue to lead the company following the deal's completion.

Pattyn's 550 employees will integrate with Duravant's global workforce of 3,600.

Pattyn COO Benjamin de Chilly said: “Duravant is a true global organisation with deep roots in Europe.

“They have a strong manufacturing footprint on the continent with renowned automation equipment brands such as Mespack, Votech, Marelec, Foodmate, Henneken, Multiscan, FMH Conveyors and Motion06.

“They recently invested in emerging markets Brazil, Mexico, China and Thailand where they established local sales, parts and service infrastructure to enhance their ability to serve customers in those regions.”

In August last year, Duravant acquired packaging machinery manufacturer T-TEK Material Handling.