Above: Marcus Robinson (Currie Group), Hideharu Hori (Horizon), Rob Mesaros (Currie Group), Sam Miyazaki (Horizon), Alan Tam (Currie Group)
Leading supplier Currie Group and renowned finishing specialists Horizon herald a new era of an enduring partnership with a significant visit.
Representing a new generation of leadership, the executive director of Horizon, Hideharu Hori, and managing director, Sam Miyazaki, visited Australia, marking a significant moment for both companies.
Shared values, strong ties
On a week-long tour, Hori and Miyazaki engaged with Currie Group’s operational team, forging stronger ties between the two businesses.
Hori, the grandson of Horizon’s founder, emphasised the profound connection between the two companies: “The relationship between Horizon and Currie Group is a long and close one built on similar values and a shared understanding that partnership delivers the best outcomes for everyone,” he said.
“As island nations, Australia and New Zealand are similar to Japan in that the vast majority of work produced here is done for the domestic market. We understand this type of market very well, but our partnership with Currie Group has always been vital to ensure we are up to date with what is going on here and what print service providers in the ANZ region need.”
Strategic partnership in a changing landscape
For Currie Group, the partnership with Horizon is not just about supply but a strategic collaboration integral to their ‘complete solutions’ approach.
According to CEO Rob Mesaros, “Over many years, Currie Group has grown its stable of brands through partnerships with pioneering manufacturers like Horizon – in this case, enabling us to provide innovative, reliable finishing solutions to complement print production.”
“It is more than a supply arrangement, however; we are close at all levels. We have open access to Horizon’s technical experts and regularly factory-train our service technicians, so that we can continue to meet our commitment to outstanding service and support as markets develop and Horizon technology continues to evolve,” he continued.
Anticipating market needs: A shift towards automation
Horizon, known for anticipating market needs, has identified a shift towards higher automation and integration.
Hori acknowledges the challenges faced by businesses in Australia, emphasising the necessity for automation in streamlining operations and maximising profitability.
“Those who are familiar with Horizon equipment will already know that our interfaces are not only easy to use and intuitive but are very similar across all our systems and equipment,” Miyazaki explains.
“They operate seamlessly on a single platform, and if an operator needs to switch from one machine to another, it’s an easy transition.
Future development pillars: Usability, workflow, and automation
Horizon’s response to the evolving market is structured around three pillars: Usability, Workflow, and Automation. Miyazaki explains, “In terms of workflow, we know that good solutions demand not only machines which integrate seamlessly, but the right platform to ensure smooth operation and optimise performance.
“This is where our commitment to developing our workflow management software iCE Link and collaborations with all leading print engine manufacturers ensures our customers can maximise the value of their systems.”
Showcasing innovation at Drupa
Visitors to the upcoming Drupa trade show in Düsseldorf can expect an impressive display from Horizon. With over 1600m2 of exhibition space and 16 systems on display, including at least five new products, Horizon aims to highlight highly automated workflows with features like robotic arms and AGVs taking centre stage.
“You will see our systems and equipment in action, both on our booth and in the booths of our collaboration partners. In total, we are bringing over 450 pieces of equipment to Germany,” says Miyazaki.
Looking ahead: Sustainable growth through collaboration
Horizon’s focus on sustainable growth aligns with its commitment to collaboration. Hori states, “At Horizon, we are aiming for sustainable growth, and we know that our success is not built alone as a manufacturer, but together with our global network of suppliers into local markets and our end-user customer.”
Forty years of friendship and partnership
Mesaros concludes, emphasising the enduring nature of their partnership, “Currie Group shares that understanding.
As business partnerships go, we have a relationship few can equal, dating back well over 40 years. We are partners and friends, and we look forward to that relationship flourishing for many years to come.”
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