ST. CLAIR SHORES | Michigan – May 2025 – GroupeSTAHL, the global leader and original innovator in heat printing technology since 1932, is proud to announce the full acquisition of TKO Sales, Inc., a rapidly growing heat transfer manufacturer headquartered in Pompano Beach, Florida, with additional operations on the West Coast.
This strategic acquisition represents a significant milestone in GroupeSTAHL’s long-term vision of intentional growth, continued innovation, and unwavering customer focus—especially at a time when many in the industry are scaling back. By bringing TKO into its family of elite brands—including STAHLS’ Transfer Express, Hotronix®, STAHLS’, and STAHLS’ Fulfill Engine—GroupeSTAHL strengthens its operational capabilities, product diversity, and agility across North America.
“TKO is a perfect fit,” said Carleen Gray, CEO of GroupeSTAHL. “Their strategic locations, unique heat transfer technologies, and entrepreneurial culture amplify everything we believe in. This acquisition brings more than just capacity—it adds chemistry expertise, innovation, and most importantly, a shared passion for helping customers succeed.”
Founded by Christian Zarate during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, TKO Sales has earned a reputation for agility, quality, and customer-centricity—values that closely align with GroupeSTAHL’s mission. Zarate will remain with the company as President of TKO Sales, continuing to lead the business with the same passion and integrity that fueled its growth.
“I started TKO with a dream, a plan, and a lot of faith,” said Christian Zarate. “My goal was always to put the customer first and deliver top-quality heat transfer solutions daily. Joining GroupeSTAHL is like coming home. I’ve long admired Ted Stahl and everything the company stands for. Being part of this next chapter is a true honor.”
With over 100,000 square feet of manufacturing capacity across both coasts, TKO brings scale, expertise, and cutting-edge capabilities to GroupeSTAHL. This acquisition unlocks:
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Increased manufacturing efficiencies and capacity
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Coast-to-coast coverage for improved customer service
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Diversified print formats, chemistry, and heat transfer techniques
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New technology pipelines to fuel future innovation
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A deep bench of experienced talent dedicated to excellence
“This isn’t just an acquisition—it’s an evolution,” added Gray. “Together with Christian and the TKO team, we’re doubling down on our promise to deliver best-in-class heat printing solutions—faster, smarter, and more flexibly than ever before. We’re not here to follow the market. We’re here to lead it.”
As the heat printing category continues to grow across sportswear, promotional, retail, and on-demand markets, GroupeSTAHL remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. This acquisition further reinforces the company’s legacy of customer success, product excellence, and entrepreneurial spirit—values that have defined GroupeSTAHL for over 90 years.
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