HP and Seiko I Infotech announced they have signed an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) agreement to jointly develop and market low solvent-based large-format printers intended primarily for the outdoor graphics printing market.
The multi-year agreement allows HP to expand its product portfolio for graphics customers who need to produce moderate volumes of high-quality and highly durable outdoor applications such as signs, banners and vehicle graphics.
Seiko I Infotech will develop the new printers exclusively for HP using its extensive expertise and technology. Marketing, sales, distribution and supplies will be handled by HP. First products are expected to become available in 2006.
“We were looking for a partner that could provide the levels of print quality, ease of use and system performance that HP customers have come to expect,” said Enrique Lores, vice president and general manager, Large Format Printing, Imaging and Printing Group, HP. “Partnering with Seiko I Infotech enables us to rapidly expand our presence in the durable outdoor signage market.”
The new products will complement existing HP large-format product offerings for the outdoor market, including the HP Designjet 5500 UV and the recently acquired Scitex Vision wide- and super-wide format printers.
“HP’s distribution channel, worldwide resources and extensive imaging and printing product portfolio make this partnership a win-win for print service providers,” said Eiichi Ishihama, president and chief executive officer, Seiko I Infotech. “We are happy to enter into this agreement, bringing the best of the best to our customers and the outdoor signage market.”
