The combined printer, copier and multifunctional product (MFP) market in India totalled nearly 1.1 million units in the first half of 2009, a 12.7 per cent decline over first half of 2008 shipments. “The impact of the global recession was clearly visible in Indian market as consumers and businesses are either delaying or cancelling their decision to buy print devices,” said Vishal Tripathi, principal research analyst, Gartner. “New sales are also getting impacted due to the credit crunch and tight budgets. However, with the decline in hardware sales, there is increased focus from vendors on their document management software and services capabilities to help businesses reduce and better manage costs.” In the India printer, copier and MFP market, each of the top five vendors recorded a decline in the first half of 2009, with Canon being the only exception. In the last year, Canon has strengthened its position in the Indian Printer, Copier and MFP market. With 21 percent market share, Canon has emerged as No. 1in A3 Flatbed Copier/MFP in 1H 2009
“With the freeze on hardware spending and more focus on cost cutting, vendors are looking at managed print services to help users cut costs and better manage their print fleet,” said Tripathi.
“This will also allow them to save money on capital expenditure. Managed print services can help businesses understand and reduce the cost associated with printing and copying through product consolidation or redeployment.”
