1980 – 1990: Expanding in prepress technology

After Bayer has obtained 100% ownership of the Group at the beginning of the decade, Agfa-Gevaert starts producing anodized aluminium offset printing plates and expands its position in the field of printing and office systems through the acquisition of the American company Compugraphic.

International speculation on the silver market causes a significant rise in the price of silver, which is now seven times more expensive than the year before! As silver is one of the most important base materials for the photographic industry, these high prices put Agfa-Gevaert in a difficult financial situation. Bayer delivers additional funds and consequently obtains 100% ownership of the Agfa-Gevaert Group.

The takeover of Compugraphic

In 1982, Agfa starts selling the anodized aluminum offset printing plate, which - thanks to its flexibility, cost price and excellent quality - makes it possible to gain new and more specialized market segments. In the same year, it takes a majority share in the Compugraphic Corporation (USA), which provides state-of-the-art typesetting capabilities at an affordable price.

When Agfa acquires Compugraphic in 1988, it becomes the worldwide leader in equipment that imaged galleys and, later, fully composed page layouts on photographic paper or film. The acquisition of Compugraphic underlines the ambition of Agfa to expand its position in the field of printing and office systems.