Acquisition of Viscon Graphic Products
Metafas Group Acquires Viscon Graphic Products
Asten, May 11, 2023 – The Metafas Group, based in Asten, a producer of high-quality front foils, user interfaces, and printed electronics, acquired its industry peer Viscon Graphic Products from Hegelsom on April 1. With this acquisition, Metafas becomes one of the market leaders in the Netherlands for printed membrane switches, foils, stickers, and nameplates for the industrial sector.
"Metafas and Viscon produce similar products but have their own expertise and customer bases," said Luc van Neer, owner of Metafas. "By merging the two companies, we are creating a unique player with extensive knowledge and experience. During this process, the expertise of our Advisory Board, particularly Steven Romme and Govert Eijsvoogel, proved invaluable. For our customers, the acquisition broadens our offering for their applications. At the same time, we have strengthened Metafas’s position by incorporating Viscon's knowledge and experience, allowing us to improve efficiency."
He continued: "We operate in a market where craftsmanship is the key to success, and such craftsmanship is becoming increasingly difficult to find. In addition, we must invest in innovation and productivity while also facing rising costs for labor, energy, and materials. By joining forces, we create economies of scale in all three areas."
Martien Meulendijks, owner of Viscon, added: "Initially, we engaged with Metafas to explore the possibility of serving as backups for each other during temporary production bottlenecks. However, as the conversation progressed, we realized we shared many synergies. While Metafas has more experience in printed electronics and R&D, there was little overlap in our customer base. Metafas then proposed deepening the collaboration by merging the two companies. Although I was initially hesitant, Luc van Neer’s enthusiasm convinced me."
In early May, the machines and staff of Viscon Graphic Products will relocate from Hegelsom to Asten, where production will continue. Martien Meulendijks will join the management team of the Metafas Group.
About Metafas
Metafas develops and produces high-quality front foils, user interfaces, and printed electronics for sectors such as machinery, medical equipment, shipbuilding, automotive, industrial automation, and logistics. The company specializes in customized solutions for small and medium-sized series. By combining various printing techniques with state-of-the-art equipment for design, prototyping, production, mechanical processing, engraving, and finishing, Metafas supports its customers from the initial design to the manufacturing and assembly of the final product.
Metafas collaborates with various innovative partners, ensuring it remains at the forefront of new developments. For more information, visit www.metafas.nl.