• Western Shield Label and Packaging is a leading provider of pressure sensitive labels and packaging solutions

• Partnership with All American Label will further Western Shield’s long-term growth objectives

• The merger executed by Mesirow highlights the firm’s expertise within the labels and flexible packaging sectors

CHICAGO, April 11, 2022 – Mesirow acted as exclusive financial advisor to Western Shield Label and Packaging (“Western Shield” or the “Company”) on its sale to All American Label (“AALP”) a portfolio company of Heartwood Partners.

Founded in 1970 and headquartered in Rancho Dominguez, California, Western Shield is a leading provider of pressure sensitive prime labels and packaging solutions for food & beverage, health & beauty, and general industrial end markets.

Nizar Elias, CEO of Western Shield, commented, “Mesirow’s work was exemplary throughout the process. Their relationships and deep industry experience were instrumental in bringing this transaction to fruition. We are thrilled to partner with All American Label for our next phase of growth.”

Louis Mitchell, managing director of Mesirow Investment Banking, said, “Western Shield is a truly exceptional label and packaging platform. We believe All American Label is an ideal strategic partner, committed to furthering the Company’s long-term growth objectives while supporting Western Shield’s strong value-proposition and market position within the labels and flexible packaging industry.”

“The combination of Western Shield and AALP bolsters the combined presence in the Southwest and across the country, positioning the company to service customers nationwide,” said Melanie Yermack, managing director of Mesirow Investment Banking. “We look forward to watching Western Shield continue to grow in partnership with AALP and Heartwood Partners.”

The merger of Western Shield and All American Label represents another successful assignment completed by Mesirow Investment Banking. Mesirow is one of the most active advisors in the paper, plastics, and packaging sectors, having completed over 150 transactions in recent years. Committed to leveraging extensive sector-specific expertise across industry groups and nurturing deep long-standing relationships, Mesirow has a proven track record of completing highly tailored and successful transactions on behalf of clients.

About Mesirow

Mesirow is an independent, employee-owned financial services firm founded in 1937. Headquartered in Chicago with offices around the world, we serve clients through a personal, custom approach to reaching financial goals and acting as a force for social good. With capabilities spanning Global Investment Management, Capital Markets & Investment Banking, and Advisory Services, we invest in what matters: our clients, our communities, and our culture. To learn more, visit mesirow.com and follow us on LinkedIn.

Mesirow was recently named one of the Best Places to Work in Chicago by Crain’s Chicago Business and one of the Top Workplaces by the Chicago Tribune.

About Western Shield

Western Shield is a leading provider of custom prime labels and packaging solutions. For decades, the Company has helped big name brands and entrepreneurs find the unique mix of practicality and design to produce great looking labels that generate sales and promote brand loyalty. To learn more, visit westernshield.com.

Nothing contained herein constitutes an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy an interest in any Mesirow Financial investment vehicle(s). Mesirow Financial, Inc. is not affiliated with Western Shield Labels and Packaging, All American Label, Hartwood Partners, or their affiliates. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Mesirow refers to Mesirow Financial Holdings, Inc. and its divisions, subsidiaries, and affiliates. The Mesirow name and logo are registered service marks of Mesirow Financial Holdings, Inc. © 2022. All rights reserved. Securities offered through Mesirow Financial, Inc. member FINRA, SIPC.