The Belgian privately owned Cartamundi group has signed an agreement to buy the United States Playing Card Company (USPC) from its parent company Newell Brands. The acclaimed playing cards maker’s focus is on North America and Spain. Through this acquisition, Cartamundi, owner of Brazilian leading firm Copag, continues to invest in the global entertainment market.
The United States Playing Card Company, owner of the iconic brands such as Bicycle, Bee, Hoyle and Fournier, is the global standard within the world of playing cards. The business employs over 350 people and has manufacturing facilities in the U.S. city of Erlanger, Kentucky and the Spanish city of Vitoria (Álava). In 2018 USPC realized net sales of approximately $112 million.
“We are excited about the opportunity and look forward to welcoming the United States Playing Card Company to the Cartamundi group,” said Stefaan Merckx, CEO of Cartamundi. “USPC is a globally renowned company and, like us, has a passion for its products and consumers. The segments in which USPC operates are perfectly complementary to those of Cartamundi. This investment will further deliver on Cartamundi’s purpose of sharing the magic of playing together towards consumers worldwide.”
“We are delighted about the prospect to join forces with Cartamundi and leverage both companies’ rich history and passion of card making, as well as our complementary global presence,” said USPC CEO Michael Slaughter. “We look forward to working together in furthering our shared ambition to delight consumers across the globe.”
Cartamundi wants to expand its geographic reach through new countries and new channels. This proposed acquisition is a logical step forward, as USPC is a strong player in the growing cardistry, casino and specialty playing cards segments. The combined company will employ 2,500 people and operate 13 state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities across four continents.
The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2019, subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.
With its strong brands such as Color Addict, Shuffle, COPAG and Grimaud, Cartamundi offers a compelling range of playing cards, children’s card games and family games which can be found in all major retailers across the globe.
