ALS Identify merges with Autoprint in second deal since 2023
What's the deal? Irish-owned labelling and automation company ALS Identify has merged with Co Meath-based Autoprint Labelling Systems for an undisclosed sum. The combined business broadens ALS Identify's offering to industrial customers across Ireland, spanning customised labelling, print and apply, automatic identification, product handling, conveyor, and automation solutions.
Who's involved? Autoprint, founded in 1988, has supplied labelling and printing solutions to Irish customers for nearly four decades. ALS Identify said the merger pools both companies' technical expertise and aftersales capabilities, giving customers in-house skills across labelling, product identification, conveyors, vision systems, scanning, and automation.
Why now? It marks the group's second major investment in recent years, following its 2023 acquisition of conveyor specialist Metal Masters. In 2024, the company moved to a 12,000 sq ft facility at Plato Business Park in Damastown, Dublin — more than tripling its previous workshop and office capacity.
What's the endgame? The bigger site is enabling ALS Identify to build larger, more complex systems while supporting research and development and workforce investment. The combined business will serve sectors including pharmaceuticals and medical devices, food and drink, agriculture, personal care, cosmetics, healthcare, and manufacturing.
Managing director Pat Phibbs said the deal fits a strategy of "adding complementary products, services, and technical expertise to the group's offering." Autoprint co-owners John Ayton and Michael Murray said they were "pleased to join ALS Identify," citing a shared commitment to customer service and quality.
The signal: The tie-up reflects steady consolidation among Irish industrial SMEs, where established specialists are combining technical depth and aftersales support to serve regulated sectors. Integration is already underway, with both firms working to ensure continuity for existing customers.
Read more: businessplus.ie
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