Integration of the two brands means Konica Minolta will no longer sell Océ products in NZ.
Canon NZ moves early – before the Australian company – to create a new division for the merged companies to sell and service products to the printing industry. Canon Professional Print will be the vehicle for Canon NZ to deliver Océ products, as well as its own, for graphic arts, display graphic and high-speed printing customers.
The new division will operate from October 1 under the management of Simon Wheeler, currently Managing Director of Océ in Oceania. He is also Director of the new Canon Professional Print divisions in Australia, which will become operative from January 1 next year, reporting directly to Yusuke Mizoguchi, Canon managing director in both countries.
In New Zealand the exceptions to the product line-up is the Océ Arizona flatbed, which will continue to be represented by local graphic arts supplier, Aarque Group, and KMNZ customers, whose Océ machines will continue being serviced by the NZ company with Canon's support. David Klineberg, Canon Australia general manager of Corporate Strategy and communications, says, that the new structure will not be effective until October, and that,"it's all about us supporting the current arrangements and ensuring customers will receive continuing high standards of customer service."
The move is the start of the much-anticipated integration of the two companies since Canon finally closed the takeover of the Dutch-based Océ last year following prolonged negotiations with hedge fund minority shareholders. The creation of the new division is anticipated to give new direction and enthusiasm to the company and consolidate Canon’s position in the front ranks of graphic arts suppliers. It is now the largest manufacturer with the widest range of presses. It is understood the Océ brand will remain in the market for the immediate future, certainly to identify products. However it is likely the Canon brand will be the dominant meme.
According to Simon Wheeler, the enlarged company will be stronger and better resourced than ever before. “Without doubt Canon and Océ are stronger together; combining complementary R&D, product and customer service capabilities which can only benefit our customers,” says Wheeler. He emphasized that all existing New Zealand Océ customers can rely on continuing service and support.