Commencing from the start of 2010, the deal represents a landmark alignment between the two companies, with Kodak Australasia managing director Steve Venn (pictured) saying that the move was prompted by "shifts in the marketplace".

"Our industry continues to change and industry suppliers owe it to their stakeholders to adapt their business model so as to be the best they can be in today's market place," Venn said. "This is what Heidelberg and Kodak are doing today".

HAN managing director Andy Vels Jensen said the agreement is aimed at pooling the resources across the two companies and embracing "the power of one".

"As much as this model may not work in all countries, it certainly makes sense in a geographically challenged and demanding market like ANZ," Jensen said.

"We encountered a willing and very capable company in Kodak who share our values and beliefs. We are confident we can shape a tremendous cooperation and achieve excellent results for our customers and employees alike".

The companies said in joint statement that Kodak's dealer network will remain "intact", with Heidelberg set to continue Kodak's existing relationship with Lithotek Printing Supplies (Western Australia, Northern Territory, Queensland and South Australia), and SEAGA Group (Victoria and New South Wales).

New Zealand distributor Frontline Technologies will work directly with Heidelberg, taking on both sales and the service aspects of the business.

These companies will also have access to products from Heidelberg in the future.

More details to follow.

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