Global Graphics has reorganised its nine pre-press hardware subsidiaries and printing software companies into two divisions in a bid to "reflect the integration" of its businesses.


Global Graphics Hardware will include the operations of Photomeca and Colomag in France, AZ in Italy, Heights, ICG and Technigraph in the UK, and US-based Kelleigh.


Harlequin and Jaws Systems, both based in the UK, will come under the wing of Global Graphics Software.


Chairman and chief executive Johan Volckaerts said the realignment was "the culmination of an intensive and strategic acquisitions programme", which the group had embarked upon over the past four years.


In the past two years, the group has bought five companies, including platesetter firm ICG and RIP developers Harlequin and Jaws.


Volckaerts said the business would take "a concerted approach" in sharing resources in R&D, product development and sales and marketing within the new divisions.


He said the development of a "clear and consistent image" was imperative and that the changes would give Global Graphics a stronger presence in its priority markets, including Japan, China, North America and Europe.


James Freidah, chief operating officer of the software division, said Global Graphics was "opening up the middle market for RIPs". Gary Jones heads the hardware division.


Global Graphics recorded a 52% rise in sales to almost 60m last year, although it made a pre-tax loss of 1.75m.


Story by Gordon Carson