Smag and Spartanics agree partnership

The partnership will combine Spartanics’ laser cutting technology with Smag’s traditional roll-fed label converting system to create a fully integrated digital line of converting equipment that will compete through direct sales and a global network of distributors.

Through the deal, Spartanics will become the exclusive distributor for Smag equipment in North America. For areas of the world where distributors are not present, Smag and Spartanics will work together to provide equipment to potential customers.

Smag will integrate Spartanics’ laser technology into its line of Digital Galaxie converting equipment and become the main supplier in Europe and parts of Asia for roll-to-roll laser converting.

Demonstration units that will incorporate both traditional semi-rotary and laser cutting components along with several converting options are currently in production. Open houses in Paris, France and Chicago are schedule for the first quarter of 2015 with details to follow near the end of 2014.

The announcement coincides with Labelexpo Americas 2014 in Rosemont, Illinois, taking place September 9-11.

Stéphane Rateau, Smag managing director, said: ‘The digital market is a revolutionary and booming market worldwide – this is not a trend but a real fact. Laser technology for the die-cutting section was a puzzle piece missing in our specific offer and we have been evaluating partners for quite some time.

‘This partnership with Spartanics will definitively bring us to another level commercially and technically by providing a direct presence in North America.

‘Finally, merging technologies, the best technologies, that each company has to offer will be beneficial to the entire label industry.’

Spartanics president Tom O’Hara added: ‘This decision has been thoughtfully considered for quite some time. We believe we have found the perfect partner in Smag in terms of company size, corporate culture and a deep desire to provide the best equipment to a label manufacturing market that is seeking technology driven equipment suppliers.’