Declining ownership cost and increasing adaptation of multi enabled features have resulted in rising awareness for Multi-Function printers (MFP’s) in the country. Additionally, growing internet penetration and rise in the usage of digital content has attracted consumers to target more reliable and cost effective printing solutions.
According to 6Wresearch, India A3/A4 printer market reached over 1.4 million units in CY H1 2016. In terms of unit shipments, Hewlett Packard led the market followed by Canon and Epson. Further, Hewlett Packard captured around 48% market share whereas, Canon and Epson acquired around 19% share each.
Key Highlights (H1 2016)
- As many as 6 vendors shipped above 20,000 units.
- In printing technology segment, Laser printers registered around 60% share of the market.
- In A3 segment, in 2Q 2016, color MFP’s recorded substantial growth as compared to the same year previous quarter.
According to Nikunj Shrivastava (Research Associate, 6Wresearch-India Electronics Division), “Printers featuring laser technology have captured around 60% market share followed by inkjet printers. Laser printers have shown a continuous rise in demand due to its economical per page cost, higher printing speed and superior printing quality.”
Over the last few years, India has been a target market for OEMs to expand their product portfolio. For Instance, Hewlett Packard continued its dominance as compared to the previous quarters and is likely to further strengthen its position by recent acquisition of Samsung Printing segment and launching 33 new printers in A3 and A4 category.
Increasing small and medium businesses, especially in tier II and III cities have further fuelled the demand for MFPs in the country. Additionally, initiatives taken by the vendors and government such as increasing number of Govt. kiosk centres will be an added advantage to further increase the penetration of multi-function printers.
