In the News
The Open Approach Serves as Dual Agent in Cenveo/CEM Deal
WESTMONT, IL The Open Approach has finalized terms for Cenveo's acquisition of Commercial Envelope Manufacturing (CEM)—an arrangement that lays the groundwork for significant new growth. Serving as representative for both parties, The Open Approach demonstrated its ability to create opportunities that mutually benefit buyer and seller. This is the second transaction The Open Approach has handled on behalf of each company.

The purchase strengthens Cenveo's visibility in the direct mail marketplace, positioning it as the premier envelope manufacturer in the U.S. The additional capabilities and services provided by CEM will help Cenveo better serve its client base, while delivering a highly attractive value proposition to prospects.
"The Open Approach pulled together another perfect opportunity for us. Cenveo is the ideal complement to our operations and culture."
—Steven Kristel, Vice President
CEM

The transaction expands CEM's sales channels and provides new investment capital to grow its five nationwide facilities. The Kristel family, which founded CEM in 1924 and has managed it ever since, will continue at the healm of the enterprise.

"The Open Approach pulled together another perfect opportunity for us," remarked Steven Kristel, vice president of CEM. "Cenveo is the ideal complement to our operations and culture."

"The integration of CEM will help us become the most efficient and diversified national envelope manufacturer in the U.S. Their reputation and scope of manufacturing will be significant factors in our growth," added Robert Burton, chairman and chief executive officer of Cenveo. "We continue to be impressed with the opportunities brought to us by The Open Approach."

"We are dedicated to identifying transactions that give our clients the best fit, opportunity, and financial return," noted Ron Seavey, Managing Partner and co-founder of The Open Approach. "This is a great move for both companies."

CEM is a $160 million full-color commercial envelope manufacturer that produces more than 45 million envelopes a day. The recipient of more than 40 FTA excellence in flexography awards, its capabilities include 8-color True Process® printing and envelope conversion.

Headquartered in Stamford, CT, Cenveo is a leader in management and distribution of print and related products and services. The integration of CEM, along with other key acquisitions, position it as the premier, one-stop source for high-end direct mail.

The Open Approach is a leading consultancy/M&A firm that operates exclusively in the graphic arts industry. Comprised of former print CEOs, COOs, and sales leaders, the firm spearheads initiatives that drive company growth and profitability. Consulting services include corporate positioning, strategic direction, mergers and acquisitions, value enhancement, alliance opportunities, and sales and marketing assistance. It has been named as the exclusive M&A recommended agent of Printing Industries of America. The firm is based in Westmont, Illinois.

For more information, please email info@theopenapproach.net or call 630.323.9700.