International Media Products Acquires Palmetto Imaging Technology, Expanding Its Thermal Transfer Ribbon Offerings

Alpharetta, GA (September 3, 2024) – International Media Products (IMP), a leading manufacturer of printing consumable supplies, announced today the acquisition of Palmetto Imaging Technology (PIT), a Winnsboro, SC-based manufacturer of thermal transfer and impact ribbons.

Founded in 2002, Palmetto Imaging Technology sells thermal transfer and impact ribbons to a network of printer manufacturers (OEMs) and distributors across North America. They also hold the exclusive distributorship for Fujicopian thermal transfer ribbons in North and South America. Fujicopian, the original inventor of thermal transfer ribbon technology, licensed this technology to Iimak and Armor in the 1980s.

“We are thrilled to welcome the PIT team to IMP,” said Derek West, President of International Media Products. “Both our companies share a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and our partners’ success. Our similar distribution channels make this a perfect fit. We are excited to offer PIT’s extensive product line to our existing customers, while also introducing our products to PIT’s clients.”

PIT founder Tony Perez is retiring after a distinguished 52-year career in the printing supplies industry. Andy Turner, Executive VP at PIT, will be joining the IMP team.

“We’ve had a long and successful partnership with IMP,” said Mr. Turner. “We’re very excited to join the IMP family and believe the strong synergies between our companies will create significant value for our combined customer base.”

In a separate announcement, IMP also revealed their appointment as the exclusive distributor for Fujicopian thermal transfer ribbons in North and South America.

“Fujicopian’s rich history, technical expertise, and strong capabilities in the thermal transfer ribbon industry will allow us to expand our solution set to include more high-end products like near-edge TTO ribbons, specialty resins, and a wider range of colors,” stated West.

About International Media Products

IMP is a leading manufacturer of thermal transfer and hot stamp ribbons used for printing variable data on labels, tags, and flexible packaging. They specialize in extruding PET base film and coating ribbons, making them the only vertically integrated producer in the industry. This unique capability translates to exceptional value for customers, offering high-quality and efficient ribbon solutions at competitive prices.

IMP is committed to delivering top-tier thermal ribbon products worldwide. They operate a subsidiary converting facility in Queretaro, Mexico, and serve as a trusted TTR expert for their reseller partners. Their mission is to provide high-quality products, competitive pricing, and the resources necessary to help resellers increase their sales and profitability.

About Palmetto Imaging Technology

Palmetto Imaging Technology, founded in 2002, quickly established itself as a leader in the impact printing supplies industry. The company specialized in solutions for MICR check printing, security impact printing, and typewriter ribbon products. Through strong partnerships with OEMs and distributors, PIT rose to become the premier supplier of impact products across the Americas.

In 2013, PIT expanded its capabilities by acquiring Fujicopian USA, Inc. This strategic move allowed PIT to leverage Fujicopian's expertise in film converting and manufacturing, enabling a successful transition into the thermal transfer ribbon market.

As the impact ribbon sector matured, PIT recognized the growth potential in thermal transfer ribbon products. The company refocused its efforts on this emerging market, capitalizing on the high-quality products supplied by Fujicopian Co. Ltd. and International Media Products. This pivot positioned PIT for continued success and expansion in the evolving printing supplies industry.

For more information on IMP, please visit www.imp-ttr.com.