Earlier this month Perfecta announced that its guillotines would be exclusively sold in the UK by Graphic Arts Equipment (GAE), ending a relationship with GHE that had spanned more than 50 years (PrintWeek, 10 July).

In a statement this week, GHE managing director Brian Mickels described the switch by Perfecta as unprincipled and said it had been done without any consultation or attempt to seek a smooth transfer of responsibilities.

Perfectas action has precipitated the decision by the directors that without a complete programme of equipment it was unlikely GHE could trade out of the situation now facing it, said Mickels.

He said that the creditors voluntary liquidation was being made while the company had no bank borrowings or other forms of finance.

But GAE marketing manager Vic Fletcher said there was absolutely no problem with the transition.

Existing and new Perfecta owners warranties, service and spares will be handled with the same degree of professionalism given to all of GAEs customers, said Fletcher.
He said that GAE had made an offer for 100,000 worth of spares held by GHE, but had not received a response.

Perfectas entire range of spares can be shipped to GAE directly from Perfecta in Germany at a days notice.

Perfecta refused to comment on the circumstances relating to its changing UK agents. We have a saying in Germany it makes no sense to wash your dirty laundry in the magazines, said a spokesman.

Story by John Davies