FountainVest and CPE have joined as new shareholders with the SML Group, a global leader in RFID and brand identification solutions, today announced that. The introduction of these two respected global private equity firms marks a pivotal milestone in the company’s growth journey.
The investment comes as SML is accelerating innovation in RFID, Digital Product Passports (DPP), Factory Care Solutions (FCS), and Digital IDs, building on its excellent labels and packaging capabilities. The company’s strategic direction remains focused on growth through enhanced commercial capabilities, innovation, and digital transformation, building a more agile, customer-centric, and globally integrated organization.
Despite economic headwinds, the company has expanded its global footprint with new production sites, major client partnerships, and significant advancements in sustainability and innovation through initiatives such as InfuseRFID, Factory Care Solutions, and the upcoming DPP.
SML’s Lau Comments
Ignatius K.C. Lau, Chief Executive Officer of SML Group, commented that growth over the past two years reflect the strength of the company’s strategy, the dedication of our people, and our ability to adapt and execute with excellence.
“The investment from FountainVest and CPE is a powerful validation of what we have built over the last four decades and a catalyst for the next phase,” said Lau in a statement. “We will continue to evolve with determination— advancing innovation, strengthening leadership, and investing in our people.”
Eye on Global Growth
With a global manufacturing footprint and presence across over 20 countries, SML combines deep technical expertise with agile execution to support clients throughout their product lifecycle, from concept and packaging to digital integration and analytics. The company’s ongoing investment in R&D and advanced digital solutions continues to position it as a leading innovator within the brand identification and digital intelligence ecosystem.
Moving forward, the new shareholders and SML’s leadership team enters this new chapter with renewed energy and a clear ambition for global growth, said Rishi Pardal, incoming Chairman of SML Group.
“SML’s greatest strength lies in its people— their creativity, commitment, and customer-first mindset,” said Pardal. “As we enter this next phase, our focus will remain on attracting and empowering talent, investing in innovation, and preserving our agility to ensure we are well prepared to serve our customers as they embrace a digitally enabled future.”
Investor Confidence
The investment from FountainVest and CPE underscores strong confidence in SML’s long-term trajectory and ongoing transformation within brand identification and digital intelligence. SML officials pointed to the regional and global expertise, extensive networks, and a shared belief in entrepreneurship, innovation, and long-term value creation from the investors.
“We have been following SML for many years, and see tremendous potential in SML’s ongoing transformation,” said Andrew Huang, Managing Director at FountainVest. “As a founder-led company with an agile, entrepreneurial spirit, SML’s culture of innovation and collaboration reflects values we deeply believe in – integrity, teamwork, and forward-thinking… we are excited for our collaborative partnership with the leadership team to support the company’s next chapter of growth.”
Hemeng Dong, Managing Director at CPE, added: “we are committed to supporting SML in delivering superior products and integrated digital solutions that enhance lead time, quality, and overall performance. We’ll help the company meet growing demand for RFID, DPP and FCS solutions, explore new opportunities in labels, packaging, and software, and create long-term value for our customers.”
