North east based SONE Products (SONE), suppliers of innovative solutions in plastic for technically demanding markets, has announced the completion of a strategic acquisition as part of its plans for growth.
SONE has acquired Product Revolution, an award-winning product design and packaging development consultancy, originally based in Sunderland, which will now operate as SONE Design. This latest development has further enhanced the company's existing design capabilities and will allow it to broaden its multi-service offering with a proven track record of servicing international brands and market leading companies such as Boots, Procter & Gamble, Chanel, Hammerite and Coty.
SONE has been operating in the plastics industry for over 30 years supplying high quality products from its automated assembly and production facility in County Durham.
Speaking about this latest investment in SONE's future, chairman and CEO, Raymond Oliver said: "For many years SONE's clients have benefitted from a range of services including design, prototyping and high quality manufacturing. In addition to offering a complete solution, the arrival of SONE Design will allow us to deliver a stand-alone design service to our growing client base. The new design team has gathered a significant amount of experience, product design knowledge and technical expertise which, when coupled with SONE's existing resources, elevates the company to the next level of growth and advancement."
SONE Design will operate proactively by developing concepts in-house carrying out much of the R & D work, mitigating the need for a high level of investment from the client.
Speaking about the transition to SONE Design, founder of Product Revolution, Ian Jobling added:"Under the SONE brand I believe we have a great opportunity to demonstrate how innovative and creative we can be in areas such as idea generation, product design and packaging development. In the past I have worked closely with clients to turn failing brands around by looking creatively at the products, speaking to the market and turning that research into positive product improvements which in turn, have significantly increased sales figures.
"We are looking forward to closer collaboration with clients so that we become their partner of choice when they are looking to work with a company known for its innovation."
Raymond Oliver and his team are committed to continuing to provide clients with the high levels of service and quality they have come to expect when working with SONE and as such have developed a robust five year plan to expand the business through existing and emerging markets.
On this occasion Mr Oliver was supported with legal advice from The Endeavour Partnership and
Clive Owen Corporate Finance (Clive Owen) who acted as financial advisers throughout the deal process. Phil Williams, a director with Cliven Owen added:
"We are proud to be so closely involved with SONE Products' successful growth story as they continue to be a key employer in the region. This acquisition shows how innovation and investment can help businesses to build a competitive advantage and achieve success even in a challenging market."
SONE Design is situated within the company's business development facility which is located close to its manufacturing plant. SONE currently employs 123 however, it is anticipated that a further announcement on new appointments is expected soon.
