CSafe Global acquires packaging provider
17 / 12 / 2021
Softbox Systems is a passive packaging provider for the pharma and cold chain logistics industries. Photo: Softbox Systems
Temperature-controlled container firm CSafe Global has acquired Softbox Systems, a passive packaging provider for the pharma and cold chain logistics industries.
Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. The combined company will operate globally under the CSafe brand.
Softbox’s SilverSkin, Silverpod and Tempcell brands complement CSafe’s active product portfolio, particularly within air cargo, said CSafe in a statement.
Softbox chief executive, Kevin Valentine will assume the role of president of CSafe’s passive temperature-controlled packaging division.
CSafe added that the acquisition will “unlock opportunities for innovation as well as enhance CSafe’s sustainable and eco-friendly offerings, with new reusable and recyclable pallet and parcel solutions”.
CSafe chief executive, Patrick Schafer, said: “Through this combination, we will be the partner of choice for cold chain delivery of high value, temperature sensitive pharmaceutical therapies. Both CSafe and Softbox have proven to be reliable partners for customers seeking a secure way to deliver their life-enhancing products around the world.
“We’re thrilled to now offer our customers a platform that provides everything from the highest quality packaging to AI-enabled thermal and kinetic monitoring and logistics management.”
Valentine stated: “Our businesses are each rooted in a commitment to excellent customer service and high product quality, which made this combination a natural fit.
“Together we will proudly continue to partner with our global pharmaceutical customers to devise and deliver the best solutions for their evolving cold chain shipping needs, supporting the delivery of temperature sensitive lifesaving medicines and vaccines.”
Todd Abbrecht, co-chief executive of private equity firm Thomas H. Lee Partners, which first invested in CSafe in 2016, said: “With the addition of Softbox’s product portfolio, CSafe strengthens its global infrastructure across air and ground while expanding its offerings for parcel delivery, all supported by the most advanced technology infrastructure.
“We see an incredible opportunity for the combined company to serve as the international partner of choice for cold chain shipping solutions and remain on the forefront of innovation in the industry.”
Ben Magnano, co-managing partner of pharma sector venture capital investor, Frazier Healthcare Partners, commented: “The acquisition of Softbox advances CSafe’s strategy to be the leading cold chain solutions provider with a full suite of products and services to meet the needs of its pharmaceutical customers around the globe.
“CSafe is an excellent platform to build upon and we, alongside our partners at THL, will continue to make investments to further strengthen the Company’s leadership position in pharmaceutical cold chain.”
