A transfer device for picking up and placing resin preimpregnated composite plies. The transfer device includes a movable transfer head with a plurality of transfer feet movably mounted within it. Each transfer foot includes a support cage with a plurality of spaced posts extending between upper and lower ends. A mounting plate is located on the support cage. A pickup foot extends from the lower end of the support cage and has a channel formed through it which communicates with an opening in the lower end of the support cage. The pickup foot includes a tip end adapted to contact the resin preimpregnated composite ply. A valve is mounted within the support cage and includes a valve member located adjacent to the opening in the lower end of the support cage. The valve member is movable between a closed position and an open position. A spring surrounds at least a portion of the periphery of the transfer foot and biases the transfer foot into the transfer head. A pressure source supplies a pressurized medium to the valve for actuating the valve member. A stripper is preferably attached to the valve and actuatable in conjunction with the valve member for dislodging a composite ply from the tip end. An actuation assembly is mounted to the transfer foot and adapted to move the transfer foot with respect to the transfer head in response to a flow of pressurized air.