INX International Ink Co. has reached an agreement to purchase Creative Industria e Comercio Ltda., a leading printing ink manufacturer in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Founded 20 years ago in 1996, Creative has risen to become one of the top manufacturers of flexographic and gravure packaging inks in South America.

As a result of this deal, Rick Clendenning, president and CEO of INX International Ink Co., believes a combination of factors will strengthen INX’s position in Brazil and South America. “Creative is a highly respected premier ink supplier and well known throughout South America. Finance Director, Guilherme Ribeiro and the management team have devoted a significant amount of time and effort to establish the business. They built it by using their considerable market experience and technical know-how,” comments Clendenning, adding, “Going forward, binding their expertise with our global reach, product development and raw material sourcing capabilities will help us provide the best ink technologies and extend our packaging ink portfolio in South America.”

Pedro Americo Ribeiro opened Creative in 1996, relying only on his own resources to produce varnishes used for packaging. Two years later, the family-owned company was producing inks and had expanded its distribution network by 2002. Over time, additional growth and greater sales volume led to an operation today that employs 64 people who work out of a 107,000 square-foot manufacturing facility in Sao Bernardo do Campo – Sao Paulo.

Guilherme Rubeiro, finance director of Creative, is optimistic that INX International’s worldwide presence and reputation will boost the company’s recognition. He and his brother Gustavo, along with their cousin, Jose Carlos Ribeiro, will continue to manage the company started by their father.

“We are honored and excited to be part of INX’s team. We will certainly be able to improve the quality of our products and services, and we now have the support we need to remain competitive and increase our sales in South America,” Rubeiro says.