Agfa and EFI’s recent collaboration is set to drive digital print transformation with wide-ranging implications for the print industry
Agfa and EFI are both prominent leaders in the wide-format, inkjet-printing sector. Their partnership signifies a pivotal moment in the industry’s evolution. An exclusive media event was hosted by EFI at its headquarters in Londonderry, USA, in the first week of February. As one of the invitees, Specialist Printing Worldwide gained insights into the future trajectory of this partnership and its implications for both companies and their valued customers.
“This strategic alliance leverages the best-in-class technology platforms of both companies”
Nicola Penhallow, Publisher of Specialist Printing Worldwide had the privilege of engaging with key executives from Agfa, including Vincent Wille, President of Digital Print and Chemicals, and Arnaud Calleja, Vice-President of Digital Printing Solutions. Similarly, discussions were held with EFI executives, namely Scott Schinlever, Chief Operating Officer, and Todd Zimmerman, Vice-President/General Manager of Display Graphics.
The collaboration addresses the respective strengths and weaknesses in each company’s portfolio. The emphasis being on a synergistic approach to provide customers with a comprehensive array of digital-printing solutions. This strategic alliance leverages the best-in-class technology platforms of both companies. EFI gains access to Agfa’s high-end hybrid printer segment, while Agfa benefits from EFI’s exceptional roll-to-roll engine.
Contrary to a merger or acquisition, this partnership is defined as a strategic supply agreement, ensuring a balanced and mutual exchange of capabilities. Both companies – recognised for their high-quality and advanced technology products – maintain distinct brand identities and service structures. The customer-centric focus remains paramount, emphasising the commitment to serving loyal customers with an expanded and cohesive product offering.
“Both companies maintain distinct brand identities and service structures”
The partnership extends beyond technology collaboration, encompassing consumables, service provisions and brand integrity. In terms of customer engagement and acquisition, each business continues to operate independently, retaining its competitive edge in the market.
Despite this collaborative effort, both companies will maintain separate stands and compete individually at industry trade shows, such as the upcoming FESPA event in Amsterdam. Both companies will be completely separate while presenting customers with a more comprehensive product portfolio.
The decision to publicly announce this partnership reflects a commitment to transparency and a desire to keep customers informed. By sharing details about the collaboration, both Agfa and EFI aim to reassure customers about the seamless integration of technologies and the mutual benefits arising from the collaboration.
“Customers can expect a smooth transition as new products are introduced and integrated into their operations”
Addressing concerns about training and adaptation, the executives affirmed their readiness for the imminent FESPA exhibition. Emphasising established processes and swift implementation, customers can expect a smooth transition as new products are introduced and integrated into their operations.
In essence, the success of this collaboration will be measured over time with both companies anticipating positive feedback from customers. The aim – as the result of this strategic partnership – is for an experience that brings enhanced and comprehensive solutions.
