The current management of CERM, a global provider of Management Information System (MIS) software for the printing industry, acquires full independence through a Management Buyout (MBO) from Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (Heidelberg) on July 31^st, 2020. With this autonomous positioning of the CERM software and brand, the CERM management aspires to boost the worldwide expansion of its automation solution for labels and packaging printers.

CERM became part of the Heidelberg group in 2011. CERM’s solution is well respected as one of the most powerful ecosystems in the market for any printer, regardless of its size or application focus. To this day, CERM serves over 400 customers worldwide and partners up with a plethora of market players.

The growing trend to digital label printing is further challenging the optimization focus in the label and packaging segment with an increasing variety of products, small order quantities, and short lead times. Automation is a high priority for any printer looking to work more profitably now and in the future. “Our software has proven expertise in increasing the service, quality, and efficiency levels of label and packaging printers globally. We are constantly focusing on existing and new customer needs and technological evolution. To explore our full potential and fuel that growth, we needed to regain independence, and welcome additional distribution and support channels.” says Geert Van Damme, CEO of CERM and one of the managers involved in the MBO.

Heidelberg and CERM will both continue to develop and distribute the CERM software as ‘Prinect Business Manager’ for the commercial print segment. All existing Heidelberg customer contracts and support channels remain in place. “We highly value the cooperation throughout the years and will continue to collaborate with Heidelberg Sales and Service units. We are also looking forward to expanding our deep industry expertise offering in the label and packaging market as an independent, innovative, and agile niche player through additional sales and service channels.” Geert Van Damme concludes.

CERM develops, sells, and implements its MIS/ERP SaaS solution, which is completely tailored to the label and packaging printing industry. This full-service software suite includes many features like CRM, product catalog, resource and production scheduling, purchasing, warehousing, logistics, and estimation modules. It also integrates with a variety of accounting systems to secure total accuracy and dependability.

The software interconnects harmoniously with the pre-press, press and post-press processing systems of other vendors, as well as with suppliers of consumables and tools. Founded in 1990, CERM proudly employs 59 people in Belgium, Germany, the UK, the US, and Australia. The CERM SaaS software steadfastly supports customers in 44 countries and holds strong market positions in the Benelux and France. The company is headquartered in Oostkamp, Belgium.