Strengthening and extending its large-format printing offering to the South African channel, distributor Kolok has merged with Paper Plot, a provider of large-format digital media and printers.  The move is the first in the strategic expansion phase of Kolok’s large-format printing and media division.

The merger also mirrors the global trend which sees businesses optimistic about continued large-format growth, according to a recent study by InfoTrends, a digital imaging market research and strategic consulting firm and the FESPA, the Federation of European Screen Printers Associations.  “It paints a clear picture of an energised community with a clear and positive vision of the future,” says the report.

Paper Plot was previously a division of Ozalid, part of Bidvest Paperplus which is a wholly-owned trading division of The Bidvest Group Limited. KOLOK also forms part of Bidvest Paperplus and the merger not only strengthens the distributor’s large-format business but also streamlines Bidvest Paperplus’ large-format digital media and printing services.

Allan Thompson, MD of Kolok, comments: “There is undoubtedly a strong and strategic fit between Kolok and Paper Plot.  Both our and Paper Plot’s existing customers will benefit from a strengthened large-format product and services offering which marks the beginning of an exciting growth phase in this specialist segment of the market.”

In order to make the merger as seamless as possible, Paper Plot’s entire team and operational structure have been integrated with KOLOK’s Large-Format Printing and Media division.  Paper Plot now resides at Kolok offices in Johannesburg and Cape Town.

Paper Plot products will with immediate effect be available throughout Kolok South Africa, Namibia and Mozambique and features a comprehensive range of:

* Equipment, aids and materials to meet the most demanding drawing office requirements;

* Wet-strength books;

* Large-format printers and accessories; and

* Digital print media for a variety of applications (aqueous, eco-solvent and latex ink-jet printers).