GroupeSTAHL acquires TKO Sales

GroupeSTAHL, a provider of heat printing technology since 1932, announced its acquisition of TKO Sales Inc., a heat transfer manufacturer based in Pompano Beach, Florida, with additional facilities on the West Coast.

This acquisition is said to mark a “bold step forward” in GroupeSTAHL’s long-term vision of “growing with intention, investing in innovation, and expanding its customer-first model at a time when others in the industry are pulling back.”

By adding TKO to its lineup of brands, including STAHLS’ Transfer Express, Hotronix, STAHLS’, and STAHLS’ Fulfill Engine, GroupeSTAHL states it has significantly strengthened its operational reach, product diversity, and production agility across North America.

“TKO is a perfect fit,” said Carleen Gray, CEO of GroupeSTAHL. “Their strategic geographic locations, unique heat transfer technologies, and entrepreneurial culture complement and amplify everything we stand for. We’re not just adding capacity — we’re adding capability, chemistry expertise, innovation, and above all, a shared passion for helping customers succeed.”

TKO Sales Founder Christian Zarate will remain on board as president of TKO Sales.

“I started TKO in the middle of COVID with a dream, a plan, and a lot of faith,” said Zarate. “My goal was to build a company that puts the customer first and delivers superior heat transfer solutions, day in and day out. Joining the GroupeSTAHL family is like coming home. I’ve always admired Ted Stahl and what he’s built—being part of this next chapter is a true honor.”

According to the company, with over 100,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing capacity between East and West Coast locations, TKO is said to bring not only scale, but new formats, formulas, and talent into the GroupeSTAHL ecosystem.

“This isn’t just an acquisition — it’s an evolution,” added Gray. “Together with Christian and his team, we’re doubling down on our commitment to bring best-in-class solutions to the heat printing community — faster, smarter, and more flexibly than ever before. We’re not here to follow the market. We’re here to lead it.”