Corey Gustafson to Retire as President & CEO of GHK Capital-Backed JohnsByrne; Kevin Andrews Appointed as Successor

NILES, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--JohnsByrne (the “Company”), a leading provider of premium packaging and specialty print solutions, today announced that Corey Gustafson will retire as President & CEO after more than four decades of leadership. Kevin Andrews, a seasoned leader with deep packaging experience, has been appointed as JohnsByrne’s new CEO. Gustafson will continue to support JohnsByrne as a Board Member and Executive Advisor, ensuring a seamless transition of leadership, culture and strategic direction.

Founded in 1959, JohnsByrne has remained committed to innovation, quality, and customer service throughout decades of family ownership and its recent partnership with GHK Capital Partners (“GHK”). Gustafson has been instrumental in expanding the Company from a boutique Printers Row manufacturer to a premier luxury packaging provider serving some of the world’s most recognized brands. Under his leadership, JohnsByrne has grown significantly, pioneering advancements in premium packaging and delivering market-leading products for customers and consumers.

“Leading JohnsByrne has been an incredible honor,” said Gustafson. “My father founded this company on the principles of craftsmanship, creativity, and customer commitment, and I have been privileged to continue that legacy alongside my brothers. Kevin’s leadership and track record of success in guiding teams through customer-centric growth make him the ideal CEO to build on our strong foundation. Finding the right leader was critical for us and I am confident Kevin will lead JohnsByrne into an exciting new chapter. As proud as I am with the growth of the Company to date, I am now equally thrilled with the opportunities ahead of us to take JohnsByrne to new heights.”

Andrews is a proven Chief Executive with extensive experience in packaging and value-added custom manufacturing. Prior to joining JohnsByrne, Andrews served as CEO of several leading firms including EasyPak and D&W Fine Pack.

“I am honored to step into this role and continue the legacy that Corey and the Gustafson family have built,” said Andrews. “JohnsByrne is a company defined by innovation, passion, and an unwavering commitment to quality. I look forward to working with our talented team of valued employees to deliver exceptional solutions to our customers.”

Gil Klemann, Managing Partner at GHK and Chairman of JohnsByrne, recognized the lasting impact Gustafson has had on JohnsByrne. “Corey has been a tremendous leader, helping to build JohnsByrne into a true industry pioneer with a reputation for excellence and creativity in serving its customers. His vision and dedication have positioned the company for sustained, long-term success.”

Klemann added, “Kevin brings a wealth of experience and a strategic mindset that will help shape the future of JohnsByrne. His focus on innovation and the development of deep customer partnerships aligns well with JohnsByrne’s core principles and will allow him to successfully guide the business through this next phase of growth. We look forward to partnering with him to drive continued success through commercial excellence and strategic M&A that further strengthen JohnsByrne’s market leadership.”

About JohnsByrne

JohnsByrne is a leading provider of premium folding carton and specialty packaging solutions, serving a diverse range of health, beauty and wellness, consumer, entertainment, spirits, and financial services customers across North America. With a commitment to excellence and innovation over its more than 60-year history, JohnsByrne has established a strong reputation for delivering high-quality, premium solutions that elevate brands and captivate consumers. For more information about JohnsByrne please visit www.johnsbyrne.com.

About GHK Capital Partners LP

GHK is a leading middle-market private equity firm focused on making control investments in industrial companies across North America. For more information about GHK please visit www.ghk.com.