Epson to strengthen its MFD portfolio

In order to show its seriousness in the multi-functional devices (MFD) space, Epson India would be launching a range of these devices in the second half of this year. Currently, the company has only three models RX510, CX5100 and CX3100 in the inkjet segment and has been lagging behind vendors like HP, Lexmark and Canon in terms of portfolio. According to the company, the new MFD models will span from entry-level to high-end features and price points.

To make a quicker penetration in this already competitive market, Epson is also likely to offer these MFDs through retail channel. “MFDs today have acquired the status what inkjet printers had until recently. Hence, we would look to add a retail face to the marketing of MFDs,” says Suresh Govindachari, Business Manager-Consumer Products, Epson India.

On the pricing of these new MFD models, Suresh adds that it would come at a slight premium because of “the technology advantages that our products have over the competition.” Informing about company's strategy to enhance its share in inkjet MFD space, he says, “We would be seriously looking at offering the customers an opportunity to buy-back as well as upgrade. Both of which, according to us are huge markets.”

The company also plans to aggressively address the government and tender business for its printer business. “Our marketshare in the inkjet space stood at 24% last fiscal and we want to increase it to at least 28% in the current fiscal,” adds Suresh.