Stockport-headquartered Arden specialises in CAD and CAM software, with its Impact packaging design software used globally, while Cimex develops CimPack Software.

Arden Group managing director Martin Poynter said the acquisition, which was completed at the end of July, would enable the business to expand its operations and further accelerate its growth strategy.

“Arden Software and Cimex share a common background of strong technology development and esteemed customer relationships in the packaging and printing industries, so we’re confident this acquisition will deliver real benefits to our customers and strengthen our position within the market,” he added.

Arden Software business development manager Matthew Hewitt told Printweek: “Cimex products are continuing to be developed, and the same quality from Cimex exists, but we're just taking a controlling hand and we will then slowly bridge the gaps between our products and pop the best parts of each together.

“Whether that creates a third new product, or whether one of those products becomes the best of both long-term, we're talking a number of years down the road and nothing will change in the immediate future other than integration and a better pathway between the two companies and products.”

Cimex was established in 1987 from its headquarters in Belchertown, Massachusetts, and serves customers in territories including the US, South America, Europe, Japan, China and South Africa.

Cimex Corporation president Andrew Carey said: “Many of our customers use both Cimex and Arden Software products, and as companies we share many of the same traits.

“We have both worked with and for our customers for many years developing our expertise in our fields, so the joining of our two companies is very complementary.”

Founded in 1988, Arden Software is part of the Arden Group, which also includes Arden Dies and Arden Engraving. The group has sites in the US, Germany, Denmark and India, alongside its UK operation.