Cambridge, UK – Global Graphics Software has signed a cooperative agreement with long-standing OEM partner Xitron, LLC.  The agreement sees Xitron take over sales and support of the Harlequin MultiRIP business of Global Graphics Software’s RTI Division for all commercial offset and flexographic markets. The agreement takes effect immediately and covers the RTI customer base for Harlequin MultiRIP Computer-to-Plate and Computer-to-Film applications worldwide.

The RTI division of Global Graphics Software provides and supports custom-branded versions of the Harlequin RIP directly to print service providers and printing equipment manufacturers, mostly in the North American market.  Xitron, a leading independent developer of custom RIP and workflow products for commercial, digital and high-speed inkjet printing on the Harlequin platform has been a Global Graphics OEM partner since 1991.

The agreement covers sales to new offset and flexographic customers as well as support of existing customers in those markets.  It allows RTI to focus its future sales and support activities for the Harlequin RIP on the direct digital market, including the Harlequin DirectPrint™ for light production printing, screen printing and the industrial inkjet market, and allows scope for new product development.

Ken Hiller, general manager of RTI-RIPs.com, says, “This is an exciting development for us and I look forward to working with Xitron in this new venture.  We have lots of opportunities to explore together and I believe this agreement will prove a winning strategy for both parties.”

“Strategically speaking, this agreement will improve Xitron’s already strong position for distribution and support of Harlequin-based RIPs and workflows in the offset and flexo markets,” said Bret Farrah, executive vice-president of Xitron. “To date, we’ve sold over 35,000 Navigator RIP kits due to our ability to drive almost any computer-to-plate or film imagesetter in use. Coupled with our advancements in the high-speed inkjet sector, Xitron should be well-positioned for market expansion going forward.”