The distribution deal for the NexPress portfolio follows on from Kodak announcing it was looking to pursue alliances in its Electrophotographic Printing business, the technology behind the NexPress.

The Ricoh agreement, which also covers Switzerland and Norway, comes as Kodak last week announced an early 2010 launch date for its Stream continuous-feed inkjet colour press.

Mark Clark, regional business manager at Kodak for EAMER, said the deal is "a great opportunity for Kodak to provide high-end print solutions to a wider customer base through the increased coverage".

He added: "Particularly important to Kodak is the access to corporate space which Ricoh brings. We will be working closely together to ensure that customers get the best solution to their changing printing needs."

The deal with Ricoh covers the NexPress machines that can print up to 100 A4ppm, as well as the DigiMaster systems, which can output at up to 150ppm. Ricoh will offer direct service support to customers.

Peter Williams, head of the Production Printing Business Group at Ricoh Europe, said the agreement had created a single contact point for its customers.

"Also, by working together, Kodak and Ricoh will be able to provide powerful solutions to an even wider range of customers," he said.