Bertram Capital-backed APPLIED Adhesives Acquires Van Asperen Kleefstoffen to Expand in Europe

APPLIED Adhesives, a leading distributor of industrial adhesives and dispensing equipment headquartered in Minnetonka, Minnesota, backed by Bertram Capital, has acquired Van Asperen Kleefstoffen, a Netherlands-based adhesive solutions provider focused on packaging, labeling, and paper converting markets. The acquisition, announced on August 6, 2026, marks APPLIED’s first acquisition in the Netherlands and its second in Europe, further expanding its international presence.

Van Asperen Kleefstoffen, founded in 1982 and headquartered in Lelystad, Netherlands, has established a strong reputation for technical expertise, customer service, and long-term supplier relationships. The company is a premium partner of Henkel and a distribution partner for 3M, serving customers throughout the Netherlands with tailored adhesive solutions for packaging and paper converting applications.

John Feriancek, President and CEO of APPLIED Adhesives, stated, “This acquisition represents another important milestone in APPLIED’s international growth strategy. Van Asperen has earned an outstanding reputation through its customer-first approach, technical knowledge, and strong supplier partnerships. These qualities align closely with APPLIED’s culture and values. We are excited to welcome the Van Asperen team and build upon the strong foundation they have established in the Netherlands.”

The acquisition strengthens APPLIED’s position in the European adhesive market, particularly within the packaging and paper converting sectors. It also enhances APPLIED’s supplier network by incorporating Van Asperen’s premium partnerships with Henkel and 3M. Together, the companies aim to leverage cross-selling opportunities, expand product portfolios, and improve operational efficiencies through consolidated supply chain and logistics functions across Europe.

Bart van Asperen, President and founder of Van Asperen Kleefstoffen, commented, “This partnership creates exciting opportunities for our customers, team members, and suppliers. APPLIED shares our commitment to technical excellence, service, and long-term customer relationships. We are confident this next chapter will allow us to build upon our success while maintaining the local support and expertise our customers depend on.”

Industry trends indicate increasing consolidation in the industrial adhesives sector, driven by demand for specialized solutions in packaging and paper converting. APPLIED’s acquisition of Van Asperen positions it to better compete against regional and global players by expanding its geographic footprint and enhancing its technical capabilities.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. The acquisition involves a full 100% stake in Van Asperen Kleefstoffen. APPLIED plans to integrate Van Asperen’s advanced dispensing systems and automation technologies, standardize quality and testing protocols, and maintain the high level of customer service Van Asperen is known for. Regulatory approvals are expected to be straightforward given the nature of the transaction.

Looking ahead, APPLIED aims to accelerate European market penetration by leveraging Van Asperen’s established customer base and supplier relationships. The combined entity expects to realize operational synergies through streamlined supply chain management and enhanced technical service capabilities, supporting long-term growth in the packaging and paper converting adhesive markets.