LaserNetworks services include print device tracking, centralized service as well as supply management and document routing. In a press release, Xerox Canada president and CEO Mandy Shapansky said, "Our acquisition of LaserNetworks expands our services footprint in Canada, enhancing our capabilities and distancing us from our competitors. It is further evidence of Xerox's transformation into a services-led, technology-driven company."

In a follow-up interview with PrintWeek, Shapansky said "The MPS market is growing in Canada - InfoTrends recently reported that the MPS market is expected to grow from $438m to $667m by 2014 in Canada, as more and more companies look for ways to optimize their print environments."

LaserNetworks, which employs 189, currently provides support services for more than 40,000 print-related devices in offices across Canada.

 Following the acquisition, it will operate as a wholly-owned subsidiary of Xerox Canada with LaserNetworks founder and CEO Chris Stoate continuing to lead the company, reporting to Shapansky.

Asked if there were any plans to leverage LaserNetworks or its extensive customer base to drive Xerox commercial press hardware sales in Canada, Shapansky said, "No, LaserNetworks' core competency is managed print services, as it will continue to be."

He also said there were no current plans to integrate LaserNetworks into Xerox MPS offerings in other regions, noting, "It's business as usual for LaserNetworks in terms of maintaining its focus in the North American market - primarily Canada."

The acquisition comes only a few months after LaserNetworks reached an understanding to acquire the assets of Markham, Ontario-based Pendulum Group, a provider of MPS as well as printing and imaging equipment, service and supplies.

News reports noted that LaserNetworks and Xerox did not disclose if that deal will go through in light of the acquisition.