Axcel acquires Esko-Graphics packaging activities

Sep 16, 2005 3:42 PM, pffc-online.com

On Sept. 6, Esko-Graphics announced that its shareholder, Kirkbi A/S, has entered into an agreement with Danish private equity company Axcel to transfer the ownership and all packaging related activities of Esko-Graphics to Axcel. Terms were not disclosed. Esko-Graphics is best known for its packaging pre-production workflow software, flexo computer-to-plate imaging devices, and samplemaking and short-run production machines for the packaging and sign and display markets. The company also offers workflow automation software for commercial printers and will continue to do so.

An Esko-Graphics spokesman stressed that "sales and development of the Scope workflow software for commercial printing applications will remain an important part of Esko-Graphics' ongoing business." In 2004, Esko-Graphics had discontinued its PlateDriver product line (four- and eight-up violet metal platesetters). Under the above agreement, Kirkbi retains the ownership of Esko-Graphics' DPX product line (two- and four-up polyester platesetters), which Mitsubishi Imaging (MPM), Inc. is distributing in the United States. Kirkbi continues to support these operations while actively looking for an industry partner to further develop this business.

At Print'05, the company announced the DPX Lite, a new two-up internal drum model, targeted toward small commercial printers and quick print franchises with portrait or duplicator presses.

See www.esko-graphics.com.

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