Dive Brief:

• Checkpoint Systems announced that it will be acquired by CCL Industries, a supplier of specialty labels and packaging, pending shareholder approval. 
• Checkpoint specializes in what it calls “merchandise availability” solutions—inventory systems that assist in replenishment and loss prevention.
• CCL will pay a premium for Checkpoint in the all-cash deal, promising $10.15 per share, or about $443 million. 

Dive Insight:

If there’s any question remaining about how important inventory control is to the omnichannel marketplace, the acquisition of Checkpoint Systems should put it to rest. Pending shareholder approval, CCL Industries will pay $10.15 per share in cash for Checkpoint, or $443 million—50% above its 30-day weighted share price.

Checkpoint offers RFID hardware, software and labeling systems that help retailers track and secure inventory from source to shelf. The systems help increase sales and profits by ensuring that merchandise is available at the right place and time, the company said. While Checkpoint emphasizes loss control and prevention, such systems have never been more important to retailers seeking a global view of inventories across online and physical channels.

“CCL is a recognized global leader in labeling and packaging,” said George Babich, Checkpoint Systems president and CEO, in a statement. “As a division of CCL, [we] will be able to invest in and grow Checkpoint’s industry-leading hardware, software and consumables to create a unique offering—the future of inventory management for brand owners and leading retailers worldwide.”