Davis-Standard Company Profile

Background

Overview

Founded in 1848, Davis-Standard is a global leader in the design, development, and distribution of extrusion and converting technology. The company's systems encompass over 14 product lines, supporting manufacturing applications across various industries, including automotive, building and construction, consumer products, medical, and packaging. With more than 1,400 employees worldwide, Davis-Standard operates manufacturing and technical facilities in the United States, Canada, China, Germany, Finland, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

Mission and Vision

Davis-Standard is committed to engineering systems that are cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and offer a high return on investment. The company's purpose is to help clients produce products that improve everyday life, emphasizing a deep understanding of customer needs and providing tailored product and service solutions. Their vision is to be globally recognized as the most customer-focused and results-driven polymer processing equipment supplier.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives and Specialization

Davis-Standard focuses on providing highly engineered extrusion and converting systems tailored to the specific needs of various industries. The company's strategic objectives include expanding its product portfolio, enhancing technological capabilities, and strengthening its global market presence. Specializing in polymer processing solutions, Davis-Standard serves sectors such as packaging, automotive, building and construction, consumer products, and medical.

Key Technologies and Markets

The company utilizes advanced extrusion and converting technologies to deliver high-performance systems. By focusing on innovation and customer-centric solutions, Davis-Standard targets markets with growing demands for efficient and sustainable manufacturing processes.

Financials and Funding

Ownership and Investments

In November 2021, Gamut Capital Management, a New York-based private equity firm, signed a definitive agreement to acquire Davis-Standard from ONCAP, the middle-market private equity platform of Onex. The transaction was expected to close by the end of that year.

Revenue and Employees

As of 2023, Davis-Standard reported revenue of approximately $609.9 million and employed around 1,500 individuals.

Pipeline Development

Product Lines and Innovations

Davis-Standard's product lines support a wide range of manufacturing applications, including extrusion and converting systems for the automotive, building and construction, consumer products, medical, and packaging industries. The company continues to innovate and expand its offerings to meet the evolving needs of these sectors.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies and Scientific Methods

Davis-Standard is recognized for its advanced extrusion and converting technologies. The company's systems are designed to be cost-effective, environmentally friendly, and offer a high return on investment. By focusing on innovation and customer-centric solutions, Davis-Standard continues to set itself apart in the industry.

Leadership Team

Executive Profiles

• Steve Andrews: Appointed Chairman and CEO in October 2024, Andrews brings over 30 years of leadership experience across various industrial sectors. Prior to joining Davis-Standard, he served as President and CEO of Briggs & Stratton, the world's largest producer of engines for outdoor power equipment. His extensive managerial experience positions him to drive Davis-Standard's global strategy and growth initiatives.

• Giovanni Spitale: Served as CEO from February 2022 until October 2024. During his tenure, Spitale focused on expanding the company's global capabilities and product offerings.

Leadership Changes

Recent Appointments

In October 2024, Steve Andrews was appointed Chairman and CEO of Davis-Standard, succeeding Giovanni Spitale. Andrews had previously served as Executive Chairman of the board since May 2024. His appointment marks a strategic move to drive the company's next phase of growth and global integration.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The extrusion and converting equipment industry is characterized by technological advancements and increasing demand across various sectors, including packaging, automotive, and construction. Companies in this market strive to offer innovative, efficient, and sustainable solutions to meet evolving customer needs.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the industry include:

• Optima Packaging Group: Based in Schwaebisch Hall, Germany, Optima specializes in packaging solutions and machinery for various industries.

• Bobst Group: Headquartered in Lausanne, Switzerland, Bobst provides equipment and services for packaging and label manufacturers.

• C&J Industries: Located in Meadville, PA, C&J Industries offers contract manufacturing and plastic injection molding services.

• JB Tool, Die & Engineering: Based in Fort Wayne, IN, JB Tool specializes in tool and die manufacturing and engineering services.

• Preferred Plastics: Located in Louisville, KY, Preferred Plastics provides custom plastic extrusion services.

These companies focus on delivering high-quality, innovative solutions to meet the diverse needs of their customers.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Acquisitions and Expansions

Davis-Standard has pursued strategic acquisitions to enhance its product offerings and global reach:

• Thermoforming Systems LLC (TSL): In November 2018, Davis-Standard acquired TSL, a leading thermoforming equipment manufacturer for the North American food packaging industry. This acquisition expanded Davis-Standard's capabilities in the thermoforming market.