The Ghent, Belgium-headquartered business said the deal, which was announced today (10 August), “delivers on the need of brand owners and converters to connect and integrate the entire value chain through upstream digitalisation”.

Canadian developer Tilia Labs’ range of intelligent algorithms for sheet layout, estimation and planning complement Esko’s existing software suite and the two companies will work together to develop “next-generation integrated solutions”.

Mattias Byström, vice president and group executive for Product Identification at Esko’s parent company Danaher Corporation, said: “Converters are coming under increasing pressure to deliver more volume with shorter print runs to bring versatility to the market, while the adoption of digital printing continues to grow.

“This acquisition demonstrates our ongoing commitment to providing integrated software and hardware solutions that accelerate the go-to-market process for consumer-packaged goods.”

Byström added the deal would enable Esko to better serve its customers in the packaging, label and wide-format markets.

Sagen de Jonge, CEO and co-founder of Tilia Labs, commented: “We have long shared a common goal with Esko of empowering businesses to improve ways of working, eradicate waste and optimise operational processes to meet the challenges they face today and tomorrow.

“We are therefore thrilled that our technology for sheet and roll optimisation, automation, planning and estimation has been identified as a perfect fit with the market-leading Esko suite of solutions.”

Byström added: “This acquisition also underlines our commitment to delivering the tools that serve to connect brands and converters upstream.

“For all our customers continuing their digital transformation journey, the integration of these next generation tools means businesses will be able to digitise, automate and connect more efficiently to drive significant workflow and operational advantages, as well as sustainability benefits.”