West Midlands Firm Set To Become Global Player

Birmingham-based Hills Numberplates Ltd has announced the acquisition of French number plate manufacturer Faab Fabricauto from 3M’s Traffic Safety and Security Division for an undisclosed sum.

Faab Fabricauto is a leading French manufacturer of license plates and signage solutions with facilities in Bourg-en-Bresse and Macon. The purchase by the UK manufacturer sees Hills move closer to their ambitions of becoming a major global player in the number plate market. The sale will see all 150 workers transition with the business to assist in Hills future growth.

Faab Fabricauto has a 50-year history in the vehicle identification solutions industry, with a focus in license-plate manufacturing. The company also provides serigraphy and number-printing services for automotive, graphic communications, signage and industrial sectors.

Incorporated in 1927, Hills Numberplates trades primarily as a manufacturer of number plate components, ready-made registration plates and the latest number plate manufacturing systems.

Richard Taffinder, managing director, Hills Numberplates Ltd said: “Hills has a long-held desire for international growth within its numberplate division and the decision to purchase Faab Fabricauto made this ambition a reality. Hills are excited by the chance to build on the strong foundations set by Faab Fabricauto and to continue the program of continuous development in both the French and UK marketplace.

“Hills has a tradition of innovation and has been servicing the UK market since 1927, hence the opportunity to expand into France and work alongside 3M as our dedicated materials supplier is very attractive. Not only will it deliver a formidable platform for success but generate a combined output by Hills group in excess of 19 million plates per annum.”

The transaction was signed by 3M France and followed consultation with the relevant French Works Councils. The approximately 150 employees of Faab Fabricauto will transition with the business and help write the next chapter for Hills Numberplates and Faab Fabricauto.

The Birmingham office of law firm Irwin Mitchell advised Hills Numberplates on the deal.