Supplier News
Belgium – Cartamundi completes purchase of The United States Playing Card Company
By Phil - 7 January 2020
The Belgian privately owned group Cartamundi has now completed the purchase of The United States Playing Card Company (USPC).
This acquisition marks the addition of the iconic Bicycle, Bee, Hoyle, and Fournier brands to the Cartamundi brands portfolio and is in line with Cartamundi’s strategy to strengthen its role as a key player in the global entertainment industry.
“This is an exciting time for Cartamundi,” said Stefaan Merckx, CEO of Cartamundi. “The addition of USPC immediately allows us to take advantage of growing playing card sales in the US. USPC’s leading position in Spain is highly complementary with Cartamundi’s European footprint and fits perfectly in our plans for strategic growth.”
The United States Playing Card Company employs over 350 people and has manufacturing facilities in the U.S. city of Erlanger in Kentucky and the Spanish city of Vitoria in Àlava. In 2018 USPC realised net sales of approximately US$112m.
USPC CEO Michael Slaughter will assume membership on the Cartamundi Executive Committee.
Michael Slaughter, CEO of USPC, continues: “Our commitment to delighting consumers, cardists, magicians and casino players with world-class quality remains our mission.”
2020 marks the 50th anniversary for Cartamundi, while Fournier celebrates its 150th anniversary. In 2020, the Bicycle brand will mark 135 years as the most widely recognised and used consumer card brand.
With the addition of USPC and Fournier, the Cartamundi group operates 13 manufacturing facilities and has an expected revenue of over $550 m. Today, the Cartamundi group employs over 2,500 people on four continents. This vast manufacturing network enables Cartamundi to deliver on its local commitment. A commitment to its customers, but also to the local economy and environment.
“Being close to our customers enables us to serve their needs best,” said Stefaan Merckx, CEO of Cartamundi. “It is by being in-market where you discover trends that facilitate growth.
