Information on the target
Butterfly Equity has reached an agreement to acquire Sabert, a prominent manufacturer of plastic, paper, and molded fiber containers utilized by restaurants, caterers, and supermarkets for holding, displaying, and transporting prepared food. This transaction marks a significant milestone as it introduces Sabert to its first private equity owner, while also representing Butterfly’s second investment in the packaging sector for 2026, following its acquisition of ePac Flexible Packaging in January. Sabert specializes in single-use packaging solutions that facilitate the transfer of prepared food from kitchens to consumers.
Sabert's diverse product offerings include catering items such as round and square platters, bowls, and serving pieces, as well as a comprehensive cold-food line featuring hinged tubs, salad bowls, sandwich containers, and various trays for produce, snacks, and baked goods. Their hot-food line comprises oven-safe meal trays and hinged takeout containers. The company markets its products under several brands, including Mozaïk Minis, SureStrip, r-PRO, Pulp Ultra, and Pulp Plus, catering to a wide range of clients including foodservice distributors, supermarket chains, restaurants, and food processors. With over 400 product patents, Sabert operates 13 manufacturing plants globally, employing approximately 3,000 individuals.
Industry overview in the target’s specific country
The Plastic Containers & Packaging industry in the United States is a dynamic and rapidly evolving sector, driven by increasing consumer demand for convenience and sustainability. The market for foodservice disposables, which encompasses single-use packaging and serviceware, is estimated to be between $19 billion and $28 billion annually. According to the Freedonia Group, demand is projected to reach $28.2 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate of 3.4%, potentially rising to $33.3 billion by 2030. This growth is largely attributed to the permanent shift in consumer habits towards carryout, drive-thru, delivery, and grab-and-go dining options.
In recent years, regulatory changes have also influenced the industry landscape, with state-level bans on foam products and restrictions on PFAS chemicals prompting a shift towards more sustainable alternatives such as molded fiber and recycled plastic. The Freedonia Group anticipates that molded fiber will continue to gain market share as traditional foam products decline. This transition reflects a broader trend within the industry, where environmental considerations are becoming increasingly important to consumers and businesses alike.
Recent transactions within the sector underscore the ongoing consolidation and evolution of the market. Notably, Novolex's acquisition of Pactiv Evergreen for $6.7 billion in April 2025 highlights the competitive nature of the industry. Other significant players include Dart Container, Genpak, and Inline Plastics, each contributing to a landscape characterized by family-owned businesses and private equity investments. As ownership dynamics shift, companies like Sabert are well-positioned to capitalize on emerging opportunities in this vibrant market.
The rationale behind the deal The acquisition of Sabert by Butterfly Equity aligns with the firm’s strategic focus on investing in leading companies within the food sector. By acquiring Sabert, Butterfly gains a scaled manufacturer of rigid foodservice and grocery conta…