Ricoh has announced that the company has reached an agreement to buy LAC Corporation, a company with inkjet technology that supports printing on three-dimensional surfaces such as on the sides of cars, trucks, aircraft, tires, and glass bottles. This acquisition is aimed at strengthening Ricoh’s industrial printing business, which is one of its three growth strategies. The transfer of the shares is scheduled to complete on October 31, 2018.
Founded in 1983, LAC has unique technology that can discharge high-viscosity ink from a maximum of 100mm enabling printing directly onto three dimensional objects. Using its technology, LAC develops, manufactures, sells, and supports industrial printing systems for cars, liquefied petroleum gas cylinders, and much more.
The investment in LAC is part of Ricoh’s Growth Strategy Plan, and one of a series of strategic investments being made by Ricoh. In addition, Ricoh is planning to expand LAC’s offerings into new overseas markets, using Ricoh’s global network.
Scott’s Upshot
At this point we’re not sure how this acquisition announced by Ricoh in Japan will impact Ricoh in the U.S., at least in the short term. Considering Ricoh’s commitment to industrial print, this acquisition provides the company with some interesting new technology that broadens its industrial print footprint. It would seem to us it’s only a matter of time before Ricoh will be showing this technology at industrial print shows in the U.S.
Access Related Content
Visit the www.thecannatareport.com. To become a subscriber, visit www.thecannatareport.com/register or contact cjcannata@cannatareport.com directly. Bulk subscription rates are also available.
