Antalis, a European leader in the distribution of Papers, Packaging and Visual Communication, has signed a binding agreement to acquire the assets of Xerox's EMEA paper business. Xerox distributes office paper and digital printing products in more than 40 countries in Eastern Europe, the Balkans, the Middle East, India and Africa.

Antalis, already well-established in Europe, continues to expand its sales in Europe, Africa and India. This acquisition will enable Antalis to strengthen its position in the office paper market and in the fast-growing digital printing market, expand its customer base, offer customers a broader range of complementary products, strengthen its strategic partnerships with suppliers and improve its operational efficiency and profitability.

The deal includes exclusive marketing and distribution rights for Xerox-branded paper and digital printing media in Eastern Europe, the Balkans, the Middle East, India and Africa. After the 2013 acquisition of the Xerox Western Europe Paper business, Antalis becomes the sole distributor of Xerox-branded paper in EMEA.

The deal is subject to other customary closing conditions and competition approval in some countries.

"While our strategy remains to develop in fast-growing countries and high-potential markets such as Packaging, we have always affirmed the need to participate in the consolidation of the Papers distribution business. It is essential for us to maintain strong positions in our markets and to improve the profitability of our office paper activities," said Hervé Poncin, Chief Executive Officer of Antalis.

Antalis is part of KPP Group Holdings Co., Ltd, a worldwide leader in papers, packaging and visual communication distribution headquartered in Japan.