Flint Group, as part of its strategy to grow in emerging markets, has today announced the launch of a new joint venture with Continental Printing Inks and Eagle Ink Systems in South Africa. Operating under the name Flint Group Africa – this new entity combines two of the leading ink and coatings suppliers to the packaging and print media markets in South Africa and the Sub-Saharan region.

“Flint Group along with the owners of Continental Printing Inks and Eagle Ink Systems are very pleased with this new partnership and the opportunities it presents to better serve the African market,” says Antoine Fady, CEO, Flint Group. “Under the guidance of Sampie Hamman – the business we are partnering with has grown to become the largest ink supplier in South Africa with local manufacturing sites in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town where they place a strong focus on customer service and product quality – a strength which fits perfectly with Flint Group’s own strategy and vision.”

“Flint Group is very proud to partner with Sampie Hamman and his team to serve customers in this important growing continent,” Fady adds. “The agreement not only provides Flint Group with increased geographical coverage but also with the expertise and infrastructure to develop and sustainably grow our business in Africa. On a personal level, I am also delighted to welcome the customers and employees of Continental Inks and Eagle Ink Systems to Flint Group and look forward to building on their continued success.”

Sampie Hamman, managing director of Continental Printing Inks and Eagle Ink Systems, who will become CEO of Flint Group Africa, says, “We are delighted to join Flint Group’s global organisation and are excited by the opportunities this partnership presents. Our common vision, strategy and business plans remain firmly in place and are only further enhanced by Flint Group’s support. Flint Group’s proven ability to provide exceptional value, superior service, consistent quality and continuous innovation on a global scale will ensure we continue to deliver exceptional value to our customers in Africa.”

The transaction remains subject to customary closing conditions, including necessary regulatory approvals, and should be completed by the last quarter of 2015.