During the 2011 financial year, Brambles launched a strategy for organic growth that included expansion in the provision of reusable plastic crates (RPCs) in the food retailing supply chain. The acquisition in March 2011 of IFCO Systems, the world’s largest provider of RPCs, was a natural step in this strategy, enhancing CHEP’s existing presence in the segment.

 

IFCO has a strong position in RPCs, which replace disposable one-way packaging, in Europe and the fast-growing Americas region. Following the acquisition of IFCO, RPCs represent 13% of Brambles’ pro forma 2011 financial year sales revenue, from 4% in the 2010 financial year, prior to the acquisition.