TOPS Products LLC and Smead Manufacturing announced that TOPS has acquired Smead, including its full product portfolio. This strategic acquisition strengthens TOPS’ position as a North American leader in office products and expands Smead’s platform with access to TOPS’ broad distribution network and North American operating footprint. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.
TOPS is a North American leader in office and organizational solutions that has continuously focused on strategic growth and customer-centric innovation through successful integration of iconic brands into its portfolio. The acquisition of Smead announced today follows TOPS’ acquisition of Redi-Tag in May 2023. By joining TOPS’ portfolio of brands, the Smead, U BRANDS and Smead Custom brands have an expanded platform for long-term, sustainable growth and customers of both businesses will have access to the full breadth of their best-in-class product portfolios.
Founded in 1906, Smead drove the revolution of office organization. From manufacturing the first Bandless File System to mass-producing over 2 million wallets for the Armed Forces during WWII, Smead has demonstrated an ability to adapt and evolve as a business while maintaining the highest quality craftsmanship. Like Smead, TOPS has a distinct heritage, multi-generational history, and shares Smead’s core values, including employee-first initiatives, workplace safety, and social responsibility.
“Smead fits perfectly into the TOPS family of brands,” said Matt Roberts, Chief Executive Officer of TOPS. “Smead makes great products and has for over a century, and its industry expertise, coupled with an unwavering commitment to their employees and customers, mirrors what we believe we’ve built here at TOPS. We’re honored to be entrusted to carry on the Smead legacy of quality and innovation that has defined the brand for over a century.”
“After nearly 120 years as a family-owned business, I’m proud to usher in this new chapter for Smead with the right home to build upon what we’ve created,” said Casey Avent, CEO of Smead. “Joining TOPS is the next step in a line of strategic decisions we’ve made to do what’s best for the Smead business and our exceptional team. I am confident this decision will preserve Smead’s unwavering tradition of quality and innovation while enhancing its leadership position in the market. With TOPS’ backing, customers will continue to enjoy the same top-tier products and services they’ve come to expect from Smead for the next 100 years.”