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A new report from Lyra Research details how monochrome laser multifunction printers (MFPs) use more toner and may require more service than single-function printers. The 30-page report, Service with a Smile: Aftermarket Opportunities in the Growing Laser Multifunction Printer Market, analyzes substantial opportunities for toner vendors and for the dealer channel supporting these devices with lucrative service contracts. With these sources of competition, OEM manufacturers are also working to protect supplies annuities with service contract programs and cost-per-page plans that force users to buy OEM consumables.
Jim Forrest, senior analyst for Lyra's Hard Copy Supplies Journal and author of the report, explains, "By Lyra's estimates, laser MFPs use 20 to 60 percent more toner per device per year than single-function laser printers. For this reason, MFPs are more lucrative, both for printer OEMs and for cartridge remanufacturers. The incentive for MFP makers to hold on to their share of the consumables market is clear, and they're doing this with programs similar to copier companies' service contracts."
Forrest adds, "From a maintenance perspective, MFPs have higher duty cycles than standard printers and, as generally more complex devices, they have more electromechanical parts. The dealer channel and OEM service providers have a sizeable window to increase service revenue. The bottom line is the laser MFP installed base is forecast to grow through 2009, making it a market with substantial profit opportunities for hardware and supplies vendors."
