Marked by key acquisitions - 2024 will be remembered for significant consolidation in the authentication industry (see ABN, Nov 2024). While mergers and acquisitions are good for growth, so are technical collaboration and partnerships combining and complementing each other's expertise to create more substantial authentication features, technologies, and systems. The article views recent developments in this light.

The International Hologram Manufacturers Association (IHMA) has embarked on the next chapter in its history, with a new name reflecting its commitment to serving a broader ecosystem of optical technologies. That new name is the International Optical Technologies Association (IOTA).

Throughout 2024, major brands announced acquisitions, signalling industry consolidation and a growing focus on expanding authentication and identity security portfolios. This article examines some of the key acquisitions and highlights how diversification and innovation drive sector growth.

Following De La Rue’s announcement, a few months ago, that it was in discussions with several parties interested in acquiring one or both of its business divisions – Authentication and Currency – the company has now entered into a definitive agreement for the sale of its Authentication division to Crane NXT, for £300 million.

Following De La Rue’s announcement, a few months ago, that it was in discussions with several parties interested in acquiring one or both of its business divisions – Authentication and Currency – the company has now entered into a definitive agreement for the sale of its Authentication division to Crane NXT, for £300 million.

The Global Centre for Maritime Decarbonisation (GCMD) has completed a two-year pilot study aimed at ensuring supply chain integrity and fuel authenticity for drop-in green fuels (ie. renewable fuels made from biomass sources that can be blended with petroleum products).

This article outlines K&B's evolving strategy, recent partnerships and core technologies, all contributing to what the company calls its ‘Authentication Solution Portfolio’ – a portfolio of non-invasive authentication solutions.

De La Rue has announced its full year results for the period ending 30 March 2024, with its Authentication division (which mainly comprises brand protection and tax stamp programmes) achieving record sales of £103.2 million.

Over the last few years, the corporate agenda has increased demand for secure and sustainable brand protection solutions. Authentication & Brand News™ reported a few such developments in the March 2024 issue and, moving forward, is sharing Crane Authentication’s latest announcement.

Texas-based security solutions provider Authentix has acquired the authentication business assets of Meta Materials – namely, Nanotech Security Corporation (NSC) – for $10 million, excluding certain assets such as cash and real estate.