The current management of CERM, a global provider of Management Information System (MIS) software for the printing industry, says it has acquired “full independence” through a Management Buyout (MBO) from press giant Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (Heidelberg). Heidelberg and CERM will continue to develop and distribute CERM software as ‘Prinect Business Manager’ for the commercial print market.
CERM became part of the Heidelberg group in 2011. “With this autonomous positioning of the CERM software and brand, the CERM management aspires to boost the worldwide expansion of its automation solution for labels and packaging printers,” said CERM in a statement.
It said the growing trend to digital label printing is further challenging the optimization focus in the label and packaging segment with an increasing variety of products, small order quantities, and short lead times. “Automation is a high priority for any printer looking to work more profitably now and in the future.
“Our software has proven expertise in increasing the service, quality, and efficiency levels of label and packaging printers globally,” says Geert Van Damme, CEO of CERM and one of the managers involved in the MBO.
“We are constantly focusing on existing and new customer needs and technological evolution. To explore our full potential and fuel that growth, we needed to regain independence, and welcome additional distribution and support channels.”
Heidelberg and CERM will both continue to develop and distribute the CERM software as ‘Prinect Business Manager’ for the commercial print segment. All existing Heidelberg customer contracts and support channels remain in place.
“We highly value the cooperation throughout the years and will continue to collaborate with Heidelberg Sales and Service units. We are also looking forward to expanding our deep industry expertise offering in the label and packaging market as an independent, innovative, and agile niche player through additional sales and service channels,” Van Damme says.
