The heat printing industry has witnessed a significant shift with the acquisition of TKO Sales, Inc. by GroupeSTAHL, a global leader in heat printing technology since 1932. This acquisition signifies a strategic move by GroupeSTAHL to expand its operational reach, product diversity, and production agility across North America. Key Highlights of the Acquisition
- 100% acquisition of TKO Sales, Inc., a rising force in heat transfer manufacturing based in Pompano Beach, Florida, with additional facilities on the West Coast.
- Significant strengthening of GroupeSTAHL’s operational reach, product diversity, and production agility across North America.
- Combination of TKO’s strategic geographic locations, unique heat transfer technologies, and entrepreneurial culture with GroupeSTAHL’s customer-first model.
- Christian Zarate will remain on board as President of TKO Sales, continuing to lead the company with the same energy and integrity that made it a standout player in the market.
GroupeSTAHL’s CEO, Carleen Gray, stated, “TKO is a perfect fit. Their strategic geographic locations, unique heat transfer technologies, and entrepreneurial culture complement and amplify everything we stand for. We’re not just adding capacity—we’re adding capability, chemistry expertise, innovation, and above all, a shared passion for helping customers succeed.”
The Acquisition Brings Several Benefits to GroupeSTAHL
| Benefits | Description |
| Greater manufacturing efficiencies and capacity | TKO brings not only scale but new formats, formulas, and talent into the GroupeSTAHL ecosystem. |
| Expanded geographic coverage to better serve coast-to-coast customers | The addition of TKO opens the door to improved customer service and support. |
| Diversification in print formats, chemistry, and techniques | TKO brings new technology pathways to fuel future heat printing innovation. |
| A deep bench of industry talent committed to excellence | Christian Zarate and his team will continue to lead the company with their industry expertise. |
GroupeSTAHL’s Vision for the Future
“This isn’t just an acquisition—it’s an evolution,” added Gray. “Together with Christian and his team, we’re doubling down on our commitment to bring best-in-class solutions to the heat printing community—faster, smarter, and more flexibly than ever before. We’re not here to follow the market. We’re here to lead it.”
The acquisition is a significant step forward in GroupeSTAHL’s long-term vision of growing with intention, investing in innovation, and expanding its customer-first model. With this acquisition, GroupeSTAHL reaffirms its unwavering focus on customer success, product excellence, and entrepreneurial spirit. GroupeSTAHL’s Commitment to Customer Success
“I started TKO in the middle of COVID with a dream, a plan, and a lot of faith,” said Christian Zarate, Founder of TKO Sales. “My goal was to build a company that puts the customer first and delivers superior heat transfer solutions, day in and day out. Joining the GroupeSTAHL family is like coming home. I’ve always admired Ted Stahl and what he’s built—being part of this next chapter is a true honor.”
GroupeSTAHL’s acquisition of TKO Sales, Inc. is a testament to the company’s commitment to customer success, product excellence, and entrepreneurial spirit. As the heat printing industry continues to grow, GroupeSTAHL is well-positioned to lead the way with its expanded capabilities and innovative solutions.
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