The market for beauty pumps in Europe is small but competitive, with other leading pump player Rexam providing stiff competition. Though still fragmented, a number of significant acquisitions by the leading players has led to big changes in the market over recent years - but there is still room for further consolidation, as this latest acquisition proves.
Milan-based Microspray Delta was established in 1948 by the Marelli family, to design and manufacture molds. In 1987, the company decided to specialise in producing pumps, a move that has subsequently led to strong and sustained growth on the back of big market demand.
In 2003, Microspray Delta was acquired by Paladin Capital Partners, the investment fund of Bain Italy. The subsequent growth of the company meant that in 2004, Microspray Delta's revenues reached over €16 million, and the firm employed 70 people.
It currently manufacturers a complete range of different pumps, including screw, snap-on and crimper designs, together with a variety of actuators and a variety of caps and accessories.
The company says that the acquisition is an important step towards securing a leading role in the European market in pumps for the fragrance industry and one that expands its position in a growing market. The acquisition means that it now employs some 920 people in Europe, and in excess of 2350 worldwide.
The company says that the move will allow it to broaden its products and services for all fragrance markets - from mass market to luxury brands. It also added that the acquisition will provide leverage towards accelerating its growth in these dynamic markets.
Calmar became a part of the Saint-Gobain Group's Packaging Sector in 1998, linking up with one of the world's top 100 companies. From its worldwide manufacturing base, Calmar produces sprayers and product dispensing systems for household cleansing, personal care and cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products.