Creaplan pursues growth strategy with acquisition Bulik Standbouw

Creaplan, based in Nazareth and specialised in exhibition stands, interiors and displays, takes over the stand building activities of Bulik in Izegem. In doing so, the Belgian market leader expands its international client portfolio.

The acquisition fits in with the growth strategy that Creaplan applies. Walter Mastelinck, director and co-shareholder, explains. “On the one hand we grow organically, on the other hand we want to grow through acquisitions of Belgian as well as European companies with a similar or complementary offer. The takeover of the stand building activities of Bulik is fully in line with this growth strategy.”

Match in vision and approach

Bulik is a fitting complement to Creaplan, says CEO Michael Debaveye. “We consider it a good opportunity to incorporate their customers into our structure. Bulik, just like Creaplan, holds years of experience with clients from various sectors. Their in-house production with talented craftsmen, choice for high-quality materials and innovative approach fit seamlessly with our vision.”

Bulik remains active

Bulik shifts its activities as stand builder to Creaplan but remains active as a creative supplier. “The current situation has accelerated our step but is not the cause of the acquisition. Family circumstances make us want a more structured life, in a less deadline related sector. We will however continue being creative.” Bulik Standbouw becomes Bulik 2.0 and will focus on displays, pop-ups, micro events, marketing and numerous creative activities. “We will gradually discover our new core business and find out for what competences our clients appreciate us the most”, says Sofie of Bulik 2.0.

Strong emergence from crisis

These last few months Creaplan has not sat back. COO Vincent Lievens explains. “Although the corona crisis has had an undeniable impact on the events industry, covid has allowed us to accelerate the further broadening of our activities, particularly in interiors and displays.”

About Creaplan

Creaplan is the Belgian market leader in exhibition stands, interior design and displays. With a team of 50 permanent employees and about 80 freelancers, the company from Nazareth designs and builds stands and interiors for SMEs as well as multinationals all over Europe.