Specialists have been appointed in each state to manage the transition, which goes live on 18 February, it added.

Graph-Pak managing director Tom Ralph told ProPrint the deal would allow Graph-Pak to focus on growing its machinery and supplies businesses while also continuing its push into digital finishing.

BJ Ball national sales manager Luke Wilkinson said the acquisition showed the paper merchant's commitment to the print, packaging and converting markets.

"We have the largest range of papers, inks, chemicals and print room supplies in Australia and New Zealand, designed to assist our customers by delivering a complete integrated solution," he said.

[Photos: The BJ 'Ball']

The deal comes after last month's launch of BJ Ball's online ordering system, The Portal.

The system allows users to track existing orders, view inventory levels, generate specific reports, download documents and communicate with BJ Ball. Users also get a first look at heavily discounted clearance items.

Digital media manager Rob Brussolo said: "This is the first fully integrated online system with the functionality to deliver customers real savings. The Portal, along with our iConsignment management system, drives efficiency through innovation."

Meanwhile, BJ Ball division Kirby International has become the exclusive representative for TechNova Imaging Systems in Australia and New Zealand.

TechNova sells offset plates, graphic arts chemistry and digital print media to more than 50 countries.

[Related: More M&A news]

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