Wirth Consulting

For in-depth print and business-process workflow research and insight

Visual Edge Continues Expansion Strategy with A-COPI Imaging Systems Acquisition

by · Published · Updated

Continuing its acquisitions of business-technology dealers, Visual Edge Technology has acquired A-COPI Imaging Systems, said to be one of the largest business-technology dealers in Maine.

The firm says its plan for the new acquisition, which it acquired late last month for an undisclosed sum, is to “keep everyone in place and brace for growth.”

A-COPI itself was formed via a series of acquisitions: Apgar Imaging Systems, Kinney Office Systems, and Excel Office Systems.

Today, A-COPI is said to be one of the largest providers of Toshiba, HP Inc., KIP, and Lexmark International office products in northern New England, with three locations across Maine in Bangor, Gardiner, and Portland. A-COPI also provides managed print and managed IT services.

As part of the deal, A-COPI will remain an independent operating company with advisory support from Visual Edge-owned Axion Business Technologies. A-COPI’s 26 employees, including the company’s president and chief executive officer, Robin Spencer, his two sons, the sales manager Ben Spencer, the administration and contracts manager, Evan Spencer, and the chief financial officer, Matthew Bennett, will all remain.

“Visual Edge likes buying family businesses, and we like to keep the family members in it; we encourage that,” said Robert Ferland, President of Axion Business Technologies. “Post close, family not only stays with the business, but they also have much larger growth opportunities for the future.”

With A-COPI founder, Robin Spencer, staying on, the company will continue to build its long relationship with Toshiba, with hopes of expanding existing hardware and software service offerings.

“We are very excited about this acquisition. A-COPI has excellent customer service and response times. They have an extremely loyal customer base and significant presence within the educational, municipal, and commercial markets. It’s a perfect addition to our aggressive growth strategy in Northern New England,” added Ferland.

More Resources