The acquisition gives Xerox access to 200,000 SME customers across the US “and adds more than 1,400 'feet on the street' selling Xerox systems,” Xerox chief Anne Mulcahy said.

Global Imaging Systems generates about US$1 billion in annual sales. The company sells and services document management systems like printers, copiers and multifunction devices, as well as providing network integration services.

The beauty of the acquisition is that Global Imaging currently sells office products from a variety of different vendors – but so far has sold no Xerox product.

As soon as the acquisition is completed next month, the company will be selling and supporting Xerox systems and services.

Through the acquisition, Xerox will benefit not only from increased equipment sales but also from the strong annuity stream that comes from the service and supplies supporting the product sales, Ms Mulcahy said.

“Xerox already has the industry's largest portfolio of document systems and services and the broadest US distribution network,” she said.

“With Global's localised expertise, experienced employees, and deep customer relationships, we'll increase our distribution to SMB customers by more than 50 per cent at a time when our portfolio is at its strongest, earning an even greater share of the US$16 billion SMB document market in the US.”