Irwin Mitchell advises on £12.5m sale of AutoCoding Systems to JBT Corporation

Law firm Irwin Mitchell has advised on the sale of Runcorn based AutoCoding Systems Ltd to JBT Corporation, a global technology solutions provider to high-value segments of the food and beverage industry.

AutoCoding is a leading provider of software solutions for the automated set-up and control of end-of-line packaging devices and extends JBT’s capabilities in packaging line equipment and associated devices, including coding and label inspection and verification.

The business has a turnover of around £5m and is headquartered near Runcorn with additional operations in the US and Australia.

AutoCoding’s central enterprise software solution integrates and automates the use of in-line packaging devices, such as coders, scanners, labellers, and checkweighers reducing manual inspection and downtime for line configuration.

While AutoCoding is scalable across JBT FoodTech’s diverse end markets, it provides a strategic fit with JBT’s Proseal business where its tray sealing equipment begins the end-of-line process. 

Brian Deck, JBT's President and Chief Executive Officer, said: “AutoCoding’s offering embodies JBT’s broader mission to make better use of the world’s precious resources by providing a solution that substantially enhances our customers’ success. AutoCoding helps its customers reduce food waste, ensure complete and accurate food packaging information, and facilitate traceability and food safety.

“The acquisition also expands our capabilities in the large and growing global market for in-line coding and inspection solutions, which includes hardware and software for food & beverage, pharmaceutical, and nutraceutical customers.”

Victoria Zivkovic, corporate partner from Irwin Mitchell’s Manchester office, along with Gregory Mazgajczyk, acted for the shareholders of AutoCoding on the transaction.

“AutoCoding is a great example of an innovative North West based business and this transaction recognises its international strength as a specialist provider in packaging line automation solutions. There is strong global demand for AutoCoding’s expertise and this deal is a significant boost to JBT’s offering to its international customer base in the food and beverage sector.”

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