Gerber Technology has acquired MCT Digital, which adds modular laser-cutting technology to the company’s existing industrial-strength finishing solution, hardware and software portfolio.
The addition of MCT’s high-end large-format cutting builds on Gerber’s heritage in the sign, graphics and packaging industries, as well as giving Gerber a key technology platform to serve its industrial markets.
MCT and Gerber are widely considered pioneers in providing integrated software and hardware solutions. Their track records of 30 and 50 years respectively have delivered technologies that have transformed the way their customers work.
Gerber first invented an automated cutting solution back in 1968, and in the past five decades the company claims to have created the world’s most integrated design and production ecosystem of hardware and software in the apparel, home, leisure, and transportation markets which places it at the forefront of Industry 4.0.
Gerber also claims to have revolutionised the way vinyl was designed and cut in the sign and graphics space with the introduction of OMEGA software and the GERBER EDGE thermal-transfer printer.
Many of Gerber’s customers originate from the textile, fashion and apparel industries and its Yunique PLM solution is a particular draw for those companies. Two of the most recent additions to Gerber’s long list of customers are apparel firm Fusalp and Swedish sportwear manufacturer aim’n.
PLM solutions like Gerber’s Yunique are a great way for companies to reduce time to market, costs and compliance risks, while at the same time increasing productivity, enhancing product quality and driving innovation, according to analysts. This adds up to an increase in revenue, according to software developers like Gerber. Gerber’s Accumark platform is another reason for the company’s extensive client list, which has recently been expanded to include the AccuPlan and AccuMark 3D modules.
Similarly, MCT has a range of solutions which are appealing to companies looking to make their first steps towards Industry 4.0. TigerPack, TigerVision and the CUT-Estimator are prime examples of the company’s software potential, whereas Auto Fabric Feeder and VersaTech illustrate MCT’s pedigree in producing hardware solutions.
Steen Mikkelsen, CEO of MCT Digital, was directly responsible for the introduction of today’s print-to-cut workflow in the sign, graphics and packaging industries with his development of the i-cut software. Two years ago, MCT launched its current cutting system, VersaTech 2 – including proprietary laser cutting technology – which went on to win product of the year at SGIA 2016.
“The product leadership, engineering and technical knowledge of these two companies creates countless opportunities to help our customers improve their productivity, streamline their workflows and improve overall efficiency,” says Scott Schinlever, president and chief operating officer, Automation Solutions for Gerber Technology.
Gerber’s financial strength, long-standing customer relationships, global service support and network, coupled with MCT’s portfolio of print-to cut software and finishing technology, has the company well positioned to empower their customers in the many markets it serves, and to also position them to fully exploit high-speed digital printing which continues to change many industries.
“We are very excited about combining our technology platform with Gerber’s global scale to drive growth,” says Nik Mikkelson, founder and CTO, MCT Digital. “The passion, focus and culture of our two companies are very well aligned, and will maintain the same standard of excellence our customers expect, and our employees deliver.”
