Mergers, acquisitions and alliances from around the world: 28 June 2011

This week’s M&A activity is headed by the absorption of Océ Japan by Canon Marketing Japan and the end to xpedx and Ryobi’s distribution agreement.


Canon Marketing Japan absorbs Océ Japan

Plans to combine both Canon and Océ printing operations in Japan have been announced.

The alliance is forecast to position the two companies in a better position to generate sales, particularly in the wide format and production printing segments.

The combined sales organizations will make both companies' products and services available to a broader customer base, serving to reinforce the Canon-Océ market position in Japan.


xpedx and Ryobi end distribution agreement

The US and Canada distribution agreement between xpedx and Ryobi has ended, as Ferrostaal AG steps up as master distributor for Ryobi offset printing presses in these markets from 1 Oct 2011.

Dan Watkoske, executive VP of sales at xpedx says it has enjoyed a long and mutually beneficial relationship with Ryobi. But after examining the evolving marketplace it has chosen to exit the offset press market and focus on the things that will enable xpedx to support customer growth.


Heidelberg UK names Watkiss and Morgana preferred digital finishing partners

Chris Matthews, digital equipment business manager at Heidelberg UK says Watkiss and Morgana complement each other and don’t conflict with anything it supplies.

"On top of that, they are both UK companies so it’s a great fit. We think there is a nice dynamic here. Both companies are happy to work together, neither of them were asking for exclusivity,” said Matthews.