NUR Macroprinters is to cut 70 jobs worldwide, 14% of its total workforce, to reduce costs.


Most of the losses will be in its American operations and Israeli headquarters.


It comes after the firm made a net loss of 4.6m ($6.5m) on sales of 22.1m in the first quarter of 2001.


"The slowdown in the US market has adversely affected results," said president and chief executive Erez Shachar. "First-quarter growth of 47% was lower than we had expected. In response we have implemented cost-saving measures worldwide."


It has already consolidated its US operations on one site at the former Salsa site in San Antonio Texas (PrintWeek, 11 May).


NUR has acquired the remaining 50% of its ink-manufacturing operation, Stillachem, from Indris International. Ink R&D operations in Israel and Texas will be moved to Stillachems Belgian site. NUR Europe and NUR Media Solutions in Belgium will also see cuts.


The company will give its Fresco 3200 and Salsa Ultima printers their European debut at Screenprint 2001 at the NEC in Birmingham from 5-8 June.


Story by Jeremy Allen