A row has broken out between Artwork Systems and MacPeople over the latters ArtPro software training course.


Artwork Systems, developer of the pre-press software package, said it did not agree with MacPeoples ArtPro course and rang the firm to express its feelings.


MacPeople claimed that during the phonecall, Artwork Systems employed "bully-boy tactics" and accused MacPeople of undercutting them and creating bad press for them.


"We think our training is realistically priced," said MacPeople training co-ordinator Karen Davies.


Artwork Systems told PrintWeek it did not support MacPeoples ArtPro course because it had no control over its contents or quality. When it rang MacPeople, "they were pretty aggressive," said Artwork Systems UK manager Jan Ruysschaert.


Artwork Systems has contracts with other companies that perform ArtPro training, but those contracts specify how the training is to be carried out.


"We have nothing against people doing the training if there is a valid contract but MacPeoples training is independent," said Ruysschaert.


MacPeoples two-day course takes place either on-site or at its offices in Manchester. An optional third day is available and prices start at 195 per person per day.


* Label and packaging flexo printer Denny Bros Printing has installed an ArtPro package at its site in Bury St Edmunds.


Story by Jeremy Allen