AWA hosts M&A Executive Forum

The forum brought together C-level executives, private equity firms, investment bankers and suppliers to create an industry-focused platform for those involved or interested in the sector. Virtual sessions were conducted on consolidation in the label industry, deal flow, and sustainability in M&A.

Mike Apperson, CEO and president of Resource Label Group closed the event as a keynote speaker with a discussion on the future of labeling and packaging. Apperson discussed the continued consolidation of the North American label market and the outlook for M&A activity. He cited that the base fundamentals of the label and packaging industry remain strong, and trends favor continued growth. 

‘There is continued excitement for consolidation in the label industry,’ said Apperson. ‘However, there is a need for owners considering a succession plan to look to the future. Multiples have been at historical levels, but rising interest rates and an impending recession will start to push multiples and valuation down.’ 

Throughout the forum, panel and round table discussions covered a broad base of issues focused on deal flows, sustainability and industry consolidation. Thomas Blaige, Blaige & Company was joined by Ron Giordano, former chairman, president, and CEO of H.S. Crocker for an interview session on consolidation in the industry, followed by a panel discussion led and moderated by Jonathan White, managing director of Mazzone & Associates on Deal Flow & Future Expectations, joined by Brandon Coffey, Wells Fargo Securities, Douglas Horn, Clairvest, Nick Mockett, Moorgate Capital, and Damon Thome, Mason Wells.

Paul Brauss, CEO of Brauss Consulting, provided insights on M&A and transitioning of family-owned businesses in a presentation titled Dare to Improve your Legacy, based on the best-selling book of the same name.  

Before the endnote presentation by Apperson, a discussion on sustainability in M&A with Arthur Erdem from EPEF, Natasha Li from Ares Private Equity Group, and Brian Flynn from William Blair highlighted the importance of sustainability and ESG within the M&A environment and future deals.