Epson to launch inkjet-based MFDs in August

MUMBAIEpson India will be doing a 16-city launch of its newest range of multi-function devices (MFDs) in August and September. The SPC (Scan Print Copy) - as Epson calls it - will be released in three inkjet-based models with some of it featuring the Durabrite (water and fade resistant) ink technology.

This is for the first time that Epson will be launching SPCs targeted at the entry-level customers like the SOHO or the home users. Until now, Epson was selling mid-end SPCs only to enterprise customers on a need basis.

Confirming the news, R.Venkatesh, DGM - Sales, Epson India informs that the printers will be aggressively priced to meet the entry-level segment. "One of the unique features of this SPCs will be 'Photo Quality' prints even on plain paper," says
Venkatesh. The pricing details will be worked out by July 2004.

"The SPCs to be launched will act best as photocopiers also because of the Durabrite technology which does not let the prints to fade or smudge even in water," he adds.With this launch, Epson hope to garner 25% marketshare in the MFD segment. Currently, it claims to have around 8% marketshare in the MFD market. "Within Epson India, MFDs should contribute about 35% of its printer revenue," he adds.

NELSON JOHNY