Mesirow Advises EBF on Acquisition by Ahlstrom Oyj

Abstract illustration of financial advisory in healthcare sector

Greenville, South Carolina, October 21, 2025

News Summary

Mesirow has served as the exclusive financial advisor for Eastern Business Forms, LLC (EBF) in its sale to Ahlstrom Oyj. This acquisition integrates EBF into Ahlstrom’s Filtration and Life Sciences business and supports Ahlstrom’s growth strategy. EBF, known for its high-quality medical devices for newborn screening, will enhance Ahlstrom’s product offerings in the healthcare sector. The transaction reflects Mesirow’s extensive experience in investment banking, having completed over 350 transactions recently.

Greenville, South Carolina – Mesirow has successfully acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Eastern Business Forms, LLC (EBF) for its recent sale to Ahlstrom Oyj. This acquisition will integrate EBF into Ahlstrom’s Filtration and Life Sciences business as part of an ongoing growth strategy in those sectors.

EBF, based in Greenville, South Carolina, specializes in manufacturing high-quality natural fiber-based medical devices. The company holds a notable reputation as the leading provider of newborn screening devices, including diagnostic cards and procedure packs. The transaction is expected to bolster Ahlstrom’s capabilities in lab and life sciences, positioning EBF as a key component of its growth strategy.

Ahlstrom, a global leader in sustainable specialty materials, reported net sales amounting to EUR 3.0 billion in 2024 and currently employs around 7,000 people worldwide. The integration of EBF into Ahlstrom will enhance the latter’s offerings in the medical device sector.

Barney Byrd, President & CEO of Gen Cap America (GCA), expressed enthusiasm regarding the transaction, emphasizing the essential role Mesirow played throughout the sale process. Brad Nelson, President and CEO of EBF, also acknowledged the importance of Mesirow’s supports and relationships during this critical time. Chris Yike, Director at Mesirow Investment Banking, reflected confidence in Ahlstrom’s ability to accelerate EBF’s growth, suggesting that the partnership will foster innovation and market expansion.

This sale marks yet another successful transaction for Mesirow Investment Banking, which has completed over 350 transactions in recent years, establishing itself as a trusted advisor in the financial marketplace. Mesirow is an independent, employee-owned financial services firm founded in 1937 and headquartered in Chicago. The firm offers a diverse range of services, including Private Capital & Currency, Capital Markets & Investment Banking, and Advisory Services. Recognized multiple times as one of the Best Places to Work in Chicago by Crain’s Chicago Business, Mesirow ranks among Barron’s Top 100 RIA firms, highlighting its commitment to a personal and tailored approach to achieving financial goals.

Overall, the sale of EBF to Ahlstrom signifies a strategic move within the healthcare and materials manufacturing fields and is anticipated to offer enhanced opportunities for both companies as they navigate future growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who acted as the financial advisor for Eastern Business Forms, LLC in their sale?

Mesirow acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Eastern Business Forms, LLC (EBF) for its sale to Ahlstrom Oyj.

What does Eastern Business Forms, LLC specialize in?

EBF specializes in manufacturing high-quality natural fiber-based medical devices and is noted as the leading provider of newborn screening devices, including 903 diagnostic cards and procedure packs.

What is Ahlstrom’s goal in acquiring EBF?

Ahlstrom aims to leverage EBF as a key component of its lab and life sciences growth strategy.

How successful has Mesirow been in recent transactions?

The sale marks another successful transaction for Mesirow Investment Banking, which has completed over 350 transactions in recent years.


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STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE

The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

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STAFF HERE GREENVILLE

The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
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