MULTIFUNCTIONAL PRINTER REFRESH TRENDS
can create limitations,” he says. “As a result, a refresh is increasingly viewed not simply as a hardware replacement exercise, but as an opportunity to improve security, productivity, sustainability and digital workflow automation.” Cinzia Gandini, general manager, EMEA at Katun, agrees that demand for MFP fleet refreshes is increasing, driven by the need to do more with less while adapting to evolving workplace demands. “Beyond replacing ageing hardware, businesses are investing in smarter, connected technologies that improve efficiency, strengthen security and simplify workflows,” she says. “Hybrid working, cost pressures and compliance requirements are accelerating this shift, alongside a growing focus on sustainability. Ultimately, organisations want intuitive, secure and integrated solutions that enhance productivity and deliver long-term value.” Kerry Rush, product marketing manager at Sharp UK, adds that factors such as businesses moving to more suitable premises to facilitate the requirements of the workforce, and the increase in returning to work in the office for more days is influencing demand. “Other elements such as improvements in device security, sustainability and connectivity also matter more now, and older models don’t support the functionality businesses need,” she says. “Refreshing a fleet is about being smarter and getting more from each device, and fleets need to be flexible enough to keep up with changing client requirements.” Trends While more businesses are looking to refresh their MFP fleets, there are certain things they are looking for in a new solution. “The opportunity is increasingly about reviewing and right-sizing existing estates,” says Chris Bates, director – print & supplies, UK & Ireland at TD SYNNEX. “Rather than relying on a small number of large devices, customers may benefit
from smaller printers positioned closer to users, creating a more convenient and flexible fleet,” he says. “We’re also seeing interest in moving from laser to ink technology, driven by faster first-page-out times and a lower carbon footprint. With sustainability high on the agenda, this gives resellers a strong customer conversation. “There is still healthy demand for contractual print, with some significant opportunities in the market. Ink-tank printers also continue to perform well. Their high-capacity tanks require less frequent refilling, offering customers a convenient ‘set and forget’ experience while creating an attractive initial hardware and ink sale.” Kerry notes that customers are looking at their fleets and considering how, what, and where devices are being used and this is leading to fleet consolidation. “They want cost efficiency while still giving their teams the functionality they need to stay productive,” she says. “Because of this, we are seeing more fleet consolidation with fewer A3 devices kept for full functionality and more A4 devices for basic needs. We are also seeing more requests for automation and workflows to boost productivity and efficiency while reducing costs.” Ian notes that organisations continue to optimise and rationalise fleets, often reducing the number of devices while improving utilisation and user experience. “We are also seeing fewer A3 deployments in some environments, alongside growing demand for intelligent IoT-enabled devices that integrate seamlessly into zero trust security frameworks and cloud-based print management platforms,” he says. “Equally important is the shift from print-centric thinking to document-centric workflows. Customers increasingly value efficient document capture, scanning, workflow automation and digital integration just as highly as print capability. Modern fleets need to support
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We are also seeing fewer A3 deployments in some environments, alongside growing demand for intelligent IoT- enabled devices that integrate seamlessly into zero trust security frameworks and cloud-based print management platforms.
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