Akiyama, which already had a direct sales force in the US, had been working with Goss since Drupa 2008 and will now hand over responsibility for sales and support of its products to Goss, including its unique perfecting Jprint line.

However, a number of independent dealers will continue to market the products in some regions.

"Our North American infrastructure provides a substantial platform to support existing customers, as well as a growth strategy for Akiyama products in the region," according to Goss International president Jochen Meissner.

Goss European marketing manager Eric Bell said there were no immediate plans to make similar announcements for the UK or wider Europe as there is already a strong dealer network in the area.

Both companies have an affiliation with Shanghai Electric, which is the second largest shareholder in Goss International after it bought a stake in the company last year. It is also one of two stakeholders in Akiyama.