Heidelberg buys CSAT to boost digital portfolio

Heidelberg has acquired CSAT GmbH, the specialist manufacturer of digital printing systems, based near Karlsruhe in Germany.  CSAT, which employs 70 people is a world leader in supplying industrial digital printing systems that can be integrated into production lines.  The move expands Heidelberg’s digital print portfolio in the packaging sector, and widens its customer base in this market segment.  Heidelberg also gains access to technology and expertise in the areas of drop-on-demand inkjet (DoD) and electrophotography.

According to Heidelberg director Stephan Plenz: ‘The acquisition is in line with our strategy to expand into cost-effective production of short and variable print runs in package and label printing.  It also builds up promising new business areas that offer additional growth potential for Heidelberg.’

Speaking for CSAT, former owner Hans Mathea commented: ‘Our international customer base and comprehensive expertise in digital printing for the packaging industry has given us a strong position in the pharmaceutical industry.  Integration with Heidelberg will enable us to unlock the potential of our digital printing technology by expanding into previously untapped areas.’  Mathea is staying on with the company as managing director.

Daniel Dreyer, who heads up Heidelberg’s Digital Packaging Printing business unit believes that CSAT gives access to new technology and know-how that will improve the company’s current digital print activities for the packaging industry.  He promised no disruption to the day-to-day business operation or quality of service for current users of Heidelberg drop-on-demand technology and existing CSAT customers.

CSAT's current portfolio, based on dry toner technology, includes the successful DTS 1200 printing system with a resolution of 1200 dpi, which is used in the pharmaceutical industry for inline or offline printing of blister packs and package inserts.  Two years ago, CSAT expanded its portfolio by launching the ITS 600, featuring the new drop-on-demand inkjet technology.  With a resolution of 600 dpi, the system is ideal for high-quality and variable full-color label printing.