Flint Group and Unirep establish JV in Turkey.

Flint Group and Unirep, a major supplier to the Turkish paper and packaging industry, announce that they have established a joint venture in Turkey. The joint venture, Flint-Unirep Packaging Inks, based in Istanbul, has been formed to serve the local packaging market. Turgay Gumus has been appointed general manager of the new joint venture.

Unirep has 26 years of experience as a supplier to the Turkish packaging industry. Unirep has established a position as one of the most "sought after" suppliers of consumables, production materials and investment equipment to the graphics industry.

The new joint venture has created a business structure that will facilitate a complete service to the growing Turkish packaging ink market from recently installed local blending facilities.

Flint-Unirep Packaging Inks will initially focus on water-based inks, i.e. market segments such as the corrugated board, paper sacks and tissue markets.

The JV team, in cooperation with the sales management of Flint Group are already in contact with the major customers in Turkey to ensure a smooth and trouble-free transfer of business to the JV.

"I am pleased to lead the new organisation in Turkey. The JV is fully operational and equipped to support existing customers, as well as the potential customers planning to establish converting companies in Turkey," said Turgay Gumus.

"The establishment of this joint venture operation is a unique opportunity for all parties to actively participate in the rapidly expanding Turkish packaging market. The regional expertise from Unirep aligned with the global industry and product knowledge of Flint Group, is an ideal combination to serve Turkish converters in the best possible way," added Doug Aldred, vice president and general manager, Flint Group Packaging Inks Division Europe.