Intralink announced today that DataLase Limited, the UK-based developer of colour-change materials for laser coding, has entered into a strategic partnership with SATO, a major Japanese developer of barcode printing solutions.
Under the partnership, SATO will form a new subsidiary, SpeciaLase, to take exclusive rights to Japan and the Asia-Pacific region for DataLase’s CO2 and Near Infra-Red laser coding technology. SATO will also acquire a stake in DataLase.
Chris Wyres, CEO of DataLase, said, “This is an important milestone for DataLase that gives us access to Japan and the wider Asia-Pacific market. Intralink has been instrumental in securing this deal – providing us with a physical presence on the ground, in-depth commercial know how, and support in navigating the business and cultural protocols.”
President of SpeciaLase, Hisashi Asai said, “SATO's acquisition of a significant stake in DataLase and the establishment of SpeciaLase is important on several levels as we look to grow our direct laser marking business and develop new business opportunities in related sectors. Intralink has played a pivotal role as DataLase's local representative in Japan and their support has been invaluable.”
Laser coding has far-reaching applications across a range of industries from pharmaceuticals, food and beverage and fast-moving consumer goods. It can be used for the printing of everything from barcodes to images and graphics, and key benefits are high speed, high-contrast print quality, and low cost due to the reduction of consumables and downtime.
Will Jasprizza, Managing Director of Intralink Japan, said, “We are delighted to have been a part of this deal and DataLase’s entry into the Japanese market. Through our bilingual team and knowledge of the sector we have been able to demonstrate DataLase’s commitment and credibility to the market as well as provide commercial guidance to DataLase. This deal is another example of Japanese companies looking to invest in leading edge western technologies as a way to stay competitive in an increasingly global marketplace.”