Heidelberg to sell EFI’s Vutek printers in US
German offset press manufacturer Heidelberg is getting back into digital with a deal to distribute EFI’s Vutek GS series of superwide-format digital printers to the commercial print market across the US. Chris Matthews, who recently returned to Heidelberg UK as digital equipment business manager, said: “There are no plans at present for a similar agreement in the UK”.
Heidelberg USA will distribute the Vutek GS2000, GS3200, and GS5000r as well as the inks, parts, consumables, accessories and upgrades related to these printers. Heidelberg will also provide customer and technical support for the printers, including installation and training.
Matthews said: “Heidelberg has been talking with EFI for a long time because in the US the synergy fits the needs of some of the customer base over there. It’s not something we’ve considered for the UK but that’s not saying yes or no longer term – but for now we’re focusing on another partnership yet to be announced.”
“We’re excited to enter into this distribution agreement with Heidelberg USA,” said Frank Mallozzi, senior vice president of worldwide sales and marketing, EFI. “Commercial printers are looking for ways to distinguish themselves and offer their clients more diversified products and services. Now we can reach those companies through a broader network.”
Heidelberg USA will have a GS3200 in its North American Print and Packaging Technology Center (NAPPTC) for demonstrations. The machine will be integrated into a complete Prinect workflow and will be colour managed by Heidelberg’s Prinect Color Toolbox.
“Wide- and superwide-format printing are high-growth opportunities and Heidelberg has the right workflow, color management, service and Saphira consumables expertise needed to integrate these technologies into a print production environment,” said James Martin, senior vice president, marketing, Heidelberg USA. “EFI is a leader in the superwide space and together with Heidelberg we can bring a best-in-class portfolio to our customers.”
