In order to strengthen its position in the cosmetics, food and pharmaceutical markets, German packaging and bottling machine manufacturer Krones is due to acquire labelling machine manufacturer Gernep Group.

Krones is a leading manufacturer of complete production for processing filling and packaging applications. The company manufactures stretch blow-moulding machines for producing PET bottles, plus fillers, labellers, bottle washers, pasteurisers, inspectors, packers and palletisers.

Krones exports more than 90 per cent of its products and employs more than 12,000 staff worldwide.

A smaller operation, Gernep produces labeling machines at its factory in Barbing, Germany. It has more than 95 employees and will continue to operate autonomously within the existing management and sales structures.

The transaction is subject to approval by antitrust authorities.