Xerox has unveiled bold plans for IPEX 2002 that will see it topple Heidelbergs long-established position as the events largest single exhibitor.


The firm will occupy Hall 16, a new semi-permanent structure providing 6,500m2 of space opposite the atrium entrance to the NEC. It is almost 30% bigger than Heidelbergs traditional 5,100m2 space.


Xerox director Alistair Summers said: "IPEX is a major platform for us to demonstrate to the market our continuing and long-standing commitment to graphic arts."


Marketing manager Peter Vincent added: "We need the space for the range of things we will demonstrate. We will have very solid stuff there showing and selling across the range."


Xerox will use IPEX for the European launch of its next-generation FutureColor digital press, which represents a $1bn R&D investment for the company.


The 2002 presence is billed as "Future Print Now" and will include customer relationship management (CRM) and one-to-one marketing applications.


"We started to set the scene at Drupa and IPEX will crystallise some of the elements of that," added Vincent.


* Xerox has secured a revolving borrowing facility of $500m from Deutsche Bank subsidiary Bankers Trust.


Story by Jo Francis