Duravant to Acquire Pattyn, Expanding Packaging Automation
Duravant LLC (“Duravant”), a global leader in engineered equipment and automation solutions for the food processing, packaging, and material handling industries, has announced that it has reached a definitive agreement to acquire Pattyn Group BV (“Pattyn”). Pattyn is a leading designer and manufacturer of automation systems specializing in B2B packaging, widely recognized for its expertise in bag-in-box packaging applications. The acquisition aligns with Duravant’s strategic vision to enhance its capabilities and expand its global footprint in the packaging automation industry.
Headquartered in Bruges, Belgium, Pattyn boasts over 70 years of experience in developing state-of-the-art machinery and turnkey systems for counting, weighing, filling, and packing solutions. These technologies cater to a broad spectrum of industries, including food, ingredients, and various non-food sectors. Pattyn’s deep expertise and customer-driven innovation have positioned it as an industry leader in delivering high-quality automation solutions worldwide.
Mike Kachmer, Chairman and CEO of Duravant, expressed his enthusiasm for the acquisition, stating, “We are extremely excited to partner with Pattyn. The company has a long-standing history of providing high-quality solutions to a global customer base spanning over 80 countries. Their remarkable growth stems from an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction and fostering long-term relationships—an approach that closely aligns with Duravant’s mission to ensure customer success.”
Pattyn’s operations span across six specialized manufacturing facilities located in Belgium, France, and Spain. Additionally, the company has established sales and service divisions in North America and Asia, strengthening its ability to cater to a diverse and global clientele. Founded in 1952 by Jean Pattyn and later expanded under the leadership of Paul Pattyn in 1976, the company has evolved from a local enterprise into a worldwide leader in packaging automation. The third-generation leadership—comprising Stan Pattyn and Lynn Pattyn, along with Pattyn COO Benjamin de Chilly—has played a critical role in driving continuous innovation, advancing new packaging technologies, and developing a robust digital infrastructure. Their service-driven approach, which spans from design to installation and complete aftermarket support, has cemented Pattyn’s reputation in the industry.
Stan Pattyn emphasized the importance of this partnership for future growth, stating, “Pattyn has demonstrated a strong track record of solid performance. We recognize that our potential for accelerated growth will be best realized with a strong partner. Through additional investments in product development, operational excellence, and expansion into emerging markets, we will not only sustain our momentum but also enhance our ability to serve customers and partners globally. Duravant is the ideal partner for Pattyn and our dedicated employees.”
Echoing these sentiments, Lynn Pattyn added, “We are thrilled to join forces with Duravant and integrate with their family of world-class brands. Duravant’s leadership across multiple end markets—including food and beverage, consumer goods, agriculture, industrial goods, logistics, and e-commerce—aligns seamlessly with Pattyn’s vision for growth. This partnership will enable us to expand into new industries while maintaining our focus on customer experience. What excites us most is that Duravant’s customer-centric culture aligns perfectly with Pattyn’s commitment to excellence. We share the same core values.”
Benjamin de Chilly further highlighted the strategic advantages of this collaboration, noting, “Duravant is a truly global organization with strong European roots. Their extensive manufacturing presence on the continent includes renowned automation brands such as Mespack, Votech, Marelec, Foodmate, Henneken, Multiscan, FMH Conveyors, and Motion06. Furthermore, their recent investments in emerging markets—such as Brazil, Mexico, China, and Thailand—demonstrate a commitment to building a local sales, parts, and service infrastructure that enhances customer support.”
The acquisition of Pattyn is a significant milestone for Duravant, as it expands the company’s packaging machinery portfolio with cutting-edge automation solutions. Pattyn’s innovative modular system designs and high food safety standards provide custom-engineered solutions tailored to meet diverse industry needs. Additionally, Pattyn’s strong presence in the bakery sector will further strengthen Duravant’s relationships with customers in this industry.
As part of the agreement, Pattyn will operate as a distinct entity within Datavant’s Packaging Solutions Group. The current Pattyn Group management team will remain in place, ensuring continuity and stability for customers, employees, and partners. Pattyn’s workforce of 550 employees will join Duravant’s global team of 3,600 professionals, collectively working to drive future innovation and growth.
The transaction is subject to customary regulatory approvals and is expected to close in the second quarter of 2025. Once finalized, this strategic acquisition will enhance Datavant’s ability to provide comprehensive, high-quality automation solutions worldwide, reinforcing its position as a leader in the global packaging industry. By combining Datavant’s broad market reach with Patty’s technological expertise, the partnership is poised to create new opportunities for innovation and customer success.
