The worldwide installed base of personal monochrome laser multifunctional printers (MFPs) is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.2 percent between 2004 and 2009, while the workgroup monochrome laser MFP installed base will show modest growth over the same period (see figure). In stark contrast, the color laser MFP installed base will grow at a 55 percent CAGR through 2009.
MFPs provide both space-saving and cost-saving benefits for SOHO users and can help reduce the number of consumables that must be ordered and inventoried. Hardware vendors have recognized this opportunity and have launched a slew of affordable monochrome and color laser MFPs.
Key for imaging supplies vendors is that laser MFPs use more toner per device per year than single-function laser printers. Because they have higher duty cycles than single-function printers and because their paper-handling and finishing devices contain more electromechanical parts, MFPs provide the dealer channel with an opportunity for service revenue.
Researched and written by Lyra Research and commissioned by The Recycler, Service with a Smile: Aftermarket Opportunities in the Growing Laser Multifunction Printer Market examines the size of the markets for personal and workgroup MFPs, both monochrome and color, and looks at trends in the markets for those devices. It also provides a worldwide forecast for toner cartridges used in MFPs and single-function printers. Finally, the report analyzes how various MFP vendors match up against one another competitively.
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