EBB has acquired leading Irish paper merchant Realt to follow on from its purchase of Uniboard five years ago.
The deal makes the independent UK business the largest merchant in the Irish market with sales of some €50 million. EBB managing director Matt Elliott says: “Since we entered the Irish market with our acquisition of Uniboard back in 2019, Realt has always been on our radar due to the excellent reputation they have.”
The Irish company will be integrated into EBB’s logistic network. It will retain its premises at Swords in Dublin while EBB operates from Rathcoole on the edge of Dublin and Belfast. EBB says that Irish customers will see a larger product portfolio with enlarged stocks. It is not being specific about the products it will carry.
In terms of woodfree coated papers Realt handles UPM Finesse, Burgo’s Respecta and Lecta’s Creator brand, while EBB is sole UK stockist for Sappi’s Magno range. Both supply Colorplan while EBB is also stockist for the lesser Colours range.
EBB sales and marketing director Chris Sandwell adds: “EBB is committed to the Irish market and in developing a local team to drive and manage the business into the future. The paper and board market is in constant change and with that comes challenge and opportunity. We believe the combined entity offers the best chance for EBB to support all of the local markets.”
EBB has being considering expansion into the Irish market even before its acquisition of Uniboard. At the time, Elliott said: “We will not be rushing into the commercial print market in Ireland. First we need to get a bigger premises and then see what the Irish market requires.”
EBB’s move comes a year after Premier Paper acquired Realt’s main rival GPMI. Realt is a family owned business that was started 43 years ago. Current managing director Get Barron says: “Our success is attributed to our talented team’s determination, focus and skills. We are excited to join EBB Ireland, a 100-year-old family business with a similar culture. We look forward to developing new products and business areas and constantly improving our offering to the Irish market.”
