Httprint has acquired Boston-based PrintConnect.com, an Internet-based print production management service provider.


According to httprinteurope marketing director Tim Smith, the deal "demonstrates that we have now settled down, and provides software solutions that dovetail with our own.


"For our American company the basic model is in place and this deal allows us to be more pro-active and quick to move to the market."


Httprinteurope managing director Barry Hibbert said the deal would enable the firm to "bring to the market certain solutions sooner".


The deal involves a number of strategic alliances for httprint, with Digital Arts Exchange, Staples.com and DiMS!, the print management software for print and packaging companies.


Httprint will buy PrintConnects site, software and customer database, along with its Boston office, creating httprints 10th regional office in the US.


"As predicted, consolidation in our industry will happen, and I am hopeful that as a result of this deal we will now see a number of things come to fruition both in the UK and Europe," added Smith.


Key personnel from PrintConnect will join httprint, including chief executive Erik Harrell, who will become vice president of business development for its US operations.


Story by Andy Scott