Global Imaging Systems (GIS), a Xerox Company, has acquired Laser Resources, a Grimes, Iowa-based multi-brand equipment dealer. It's the latest in a growing list of GIS acquisitions that involve managed print services (MPS) and associated equipment providers.
Laser Resources provides production printing systems, multifunction devices, mailing solutions, professional services, managed print services and document management services in the Iowa area. President, CEO and co-founder Bob Lashier will remain Laser Resources’ president. Co-owner Andy Lashier will remain executive VP of Laser Resources.
GIS: An Acquisition Machine
GIS sells and services document management systems such as printers, copiers and multifunction devices; network integration services; and electronic presentation systems. The company is particularly active on the M&A front. Before the Laser Resources deal, GIS acquired ASI Business Solutions in the Dallas-Fort Worth market.
It's a safe bet GIS is in the market for more acquisitions. Indeed, the company has full-time corporate staff devoted to acquisitions. Those team members look for potential acquisition targets and then perform "detailed analysis, valuation, due diligence, and all actions necessary to consummate an acquisition."
Still, the GIS strategy reinforces a tricky balancing act for both Xerox and GIS -- particularly as Xerox attempts to empower third-party MSPs and dealers for managed print services.
