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Benchmark International Successfully Facilitated the Sale of Glenart to IG Design Group PLC
May 27, 2026
Benchmark International is pleased to announce that it has successfully advised on the sale of Glenart Trading Proprietary Limited, Marcorp Marketing Consultants Proprietary Limited and Glenart Trading Limited (collectively referred to as ‘Glenart’) to IG Design Group PLC, a leading designer, innovator and manufacturer across various celebration and creative categories.
The acquisition represents a significant milestone for Glenart and supports its next phase of growth within a global platform. The transaction brings together Glenart’s strong creative capabilities and established market presence with IG Design Group PLC’s international scale, resources, and distribution network. This strategic acquisition enhances the company’s ability to expand its product reach, strengthen operational capacity, and accelerate growth in both existing and new markets.
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Founded in South Africa, Glenart is a well-regarded designer and supplier of crackers. The company has built a strong reputation for creativity, quality, and customer-focused design, serving a broad range of retail partners with innovative and commercially successful product ranges. Its integrated design-led approach and reliable supply capabilities have positioned the company as a trusted partner within the cracker sector.
Miles Rasmussen, founder of Glenart commented: “We are excited about the future of Glenart and the significant benefits we expect to realise by bringing together two highly complementary businesses.”
IG Design Group PLC, listed on the London Stock Exchange, is a global leader in the design, manufacture, and supply of creative consumer products across celebrations, gifting, stationery, crafting, and toys. With operations spanning multiple continents, the group partners with many of the world’s leading retailers, providing scale, expertise, and extensive international distribution capabilities. The acquisition aligns with IG Design Group’s strategy of expanding its creative portfolio and strengthening its presence in key growth markets.
Stewart Gilliland, Interim Executive Chair of IG Design Group PLC added: “We are delighted to complete the acquisition of Glenart. Glenart is a highly complementary business to our own, with a strong track record of growth, an established retailer customer base in South Africa and internationally, and a proven, high quality, low-cost manufacturing platform. We look forward to welcoming them into the wider Group.”
John Loubser, Transaction Director at Benchmark International, added: “Glenart has built an exceptional reputation through its creativity, quality, and long-standing customer relationships. This transaction represents a strong strategic fit for both parties, and we are delighted to have assisted Miles Rasmussen and the Glenart team in achieving this important milestone. We believe IG Design Group PLC provides an outstanding platform for Glenart’s continued growth and international expansion.”
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