Canon and Océ report that they are 'stronger together' as the integration of the two companies in the UK and Ireland reaches completion. The 'new era' comes after Canon originally acquired Océ in 2012, and follows similar mergers in other countries including Switzerland.

Since the merger, the two print titans have joined forces to develop new products and strengthen their marketing and service capabilities, Canon says. The latest development aims to 'maximise synergies' to further its ambitions of creating the 'overall number one presence in the global printing industry'.

"I am proud and excited to be leading our company as we complete the process to integrate the local Océ operations into the Canon UK business," says Hasse Iwarsson, managing director of Canon UK and Ireland. "Today marks the start of a new era in which we will use the combined strengths of Canon and Océ to offer the industry's broadest portfolio of print products, services and solutions to our customers in the UK and Ireland."

The combined forces of the company now totals 2,150 staff and is headquartered in Reigate, Surrey.