Ricoh to Acquire Germany’s ColorGATE Digital Output Solutions

Tokyo-based Ricoh, a manufacturer of commercial inkjet printheads, large format printers and office imaging equipment, announces its purchase of Germany’s ColorGATE Digital Output Solutions, makers of workflow and color management solutions.

The acquisition is expected to be completed by the end of November. According to Thomas Kirschner, CEO of ColorGATE, his company will continue to be operated as a separate entity within the Ricoh organization and he will continue in his role.

“As co-founder, shareholder and managing director/CEO in charge of ColorGATE since its founding, I’m delighted to inform you that we have reached agreement with Ricoh Company Ltd. to acquire all shares of ColorGATE,” says Kirschner. “This is the result of a long-prepared strategic decision of CG´s shareholders, directors and key employees to ensure the company’s further growth and continuous business success in this ever-changing, challenging and exciting industry.”

Kirschner also says that company co-founder Norbert Steinhauer will remain with the company but will hand over this chief technology officer role to Jens Kopp, an industry veteran who has been with the company since 2002.

Kirschner also announces that Michael Stoye will remain as chief operating officer; Lars Vollers as the head of accounting; Thomas Oberhack as head of customer service; Thomas Kirschner’s wife, Catherine, is continuing to lead marketing and communications; and Janis Katomeris has taken over the lead of the company’s technical service team.

“With Ricoh´s support and focus on inkjet we are planning to grow our team, increase our global presence and further ignite innovative solutions-committed to color,” Thomas Kirschner says.