PCMC Finalizes Acquisition of F.L. Smithe

Published: September 17, 2009

GREEN BAY, WI | Paper Converting Machine Co. (PCMC), a div. of Barry-Wehmiller Cos., Inc., has finalized the acquisition of F.L. Smithe Machine Co., Duncansville, PA, on September 8. Immediate plans call for a corporate restructuring with manufacturing to move to Green Bay while a sales and service office will be maintained in Duncansville.

F.L. Smithe was founded in 1904 by Ferdinand L. Smithe in New York, NY, specializing in machine products for the envelope manufacturing industry. (http://pffc-online.com/mag/envelope-making-century-celebration/index.html) Until its sale, the company was still operated by the founding Smithe family, including members of the fourth generation. Equipment holdings perform folding, printing, and cutting functions, and the acquisition includes both the Aquaflex line of narrow web presses as well as Champion envelope machinery.

Edgar A. Smithe Jr., president and CEO of F.L. Smithe and grandson of the founder, comments: “This agreement ensures the continued commitment to existing and future customers of our Champion and Aquaflex product lines for many years to come with regard to new machinery as well as service and support for thousands of installed machines around the world."