PRINT inthechannel.co.uk
Issue #33
Introduce your customers to Brother tankbenefit. The new refillable ink printer from the brand that's "At your side"
www.brotherzone.co.uk/tankbenefit
If your customers are looking for printers that have low running costs, are easy to use and have advanced connectivity options, then they need a tankbenefit from Brother. A new refillable, reliable, quality inkjet printer with high yield in-box inks and all the benefits you can expect from buying a Brother printer. Utilising the Brother Mobile Connect app with this new range allows printing and scanning documents on the move. Learn more about the tankbenefit range www.brotherzone.co.uk/tankbenefit
*Terms and conditions apply, see BrotherZone for more information.
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COMMENT
Scanning the horizon While the economy might be uncertain, there are still plenty of opportunities for print resellers to grasp in 2026 across the spectrum of print – and many in the sector are optimistic about the year ahead.
With Christmas now a fading memory, the print channel is now focusing on capitalising on the opportunities that 2026 will bring. While the economy is still not faring well – and with potential economic shocks to come due to overseas political situations
print channel give their opinions on what the next 12 months might hold in store in terms of technology, customer trends and more. The feature starts on p22. One product area that is growing and is set to continue to grow in 2026 and beyond is the use of RFID labels. These labels can carry more information than regular labels and are
Dan Parton
– some businesses are wary about 2026. But there are also plenty of opportunities for print resellers too – if they are dynamic enough to take them. Some businesses will be looking to update their print fleet, while others will be looking for cost savings and
becoming essential in a variety of sectors. Of course, they require printing, and this provides plenty of opportunities for resellers. Read more on p42. Elsewhere in this issue, we celebrate the best in the print channel. The third edition of the Stock in the Channel Awards featured more print categories
efficiencies – all of which provides opportunities for resellers. Then there are plenty of growing areas of the print sector, from labels to workflow automation – you can read more on that on p38 – to large format printing. There are also more moves towards managed print services, which provides reliable income. It also encompasses security increasingly as print devices face an increasing number of threats from bad actors, especially with the rise of AI making threats ever more sophisticated. Of course, AI can also be used in the fightback against it too. More on that on p49. In addition, our 2026 preview feature, a range of thought leaders from across the
than ever before. With the unique way the award winners are calculated – using data rather than a subjective judging panel – then the winners know that their award is well deserved. Find out about the winners on p35. As always, I hope you enjoy the issue. Print in the Channel is for everyone in the print channel, so if there is a topic you would like to see covered in a future issue – or you have an opinion piece or news story you would like to submit for consideration for publication – please drop me a line at dan@newsinthechannel.com. n
See the 2025 WINNERS
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00 05
CONTENTS
News You should know p8 Product launches Canon p14 Brother p18 Fujifilm p20 Preview 2026 Thought leaders opinions p22 Laminators p30 Cover story Brother colour laser campaign p32 Stockies 2025 Winners all p35 Print workflow automation p38 RFID p42 Sharp Inspire Expo 2026 p47 AI in printer security p49 Eagle Eye BI Inkjet printers p52 EKM Security credentials p54 People p55 Stockies 2025 The Winners
Preview 2026 – p22
With the new year already almost a month old, it is a good time to look forward to what the rest of 2026 has in store for the print channel. Thought leaders from across the print channel give their opinions on what the year may bring.
Sharp Inspire Expo 2026 – p47
At Sharp Inspire Expo 2026, one message came through loud and clear: Sharp is no longer talking about individual product lines or standalone solutions.
Product Launches Canon – p14
Canon has launched the corrPRESS iB17, a digital press for industrial-scale corrugated packaging printing that can enable short- to medium-length runs to be cost efficient and turned around quickly.
Brother UK has refreshed its J6000 inkjet line-up for small businesses, with the aim of helping them to upgrade to secure, high- volume A3 printing in a compact footprint.
Brother – p18
06
CONTENTS
Stockies – p35
The third edition of the Stockies were bigger and better than ever, with more companies from the print channel receiving recognition in the awards ceremony that is like no other.
Publishing Director Justin Penn 07816 573 186 justin@ printinthechannel.com Editorial Dan Parton 07941 979 845 dan@ printinthechannel.com Advertising Sales Martin Jenner-Hall 07824 552 116 martin@ printinthechannel.com Market Analyst Wickus Bester wickus.bester@ stockinthechannel.com
AI in printer security – p49
AI is increasingly being used by cybercriminals to target businesses, and printers are no exception – and this is something customers and resellers need to be alive to if they want to ensure security is not breached.
Print workflow automation – p38
As many businesses look to increase efficiency and reduce costs, as well as futureproof their print environments, a growing number are turning to print workflow automation solutions to help achieve this.
Written permission from the publisher is required before any part of Print in the Channel can be reproduced. © 2026 In the Channel Media Ltd.
Laminators – p30
Fujifilm – p20
Fujifilm has expanded its Apeos office portfolio with the new ApeosPrint C4030 and ApeosPrint 5330 A4 single function printers, which are aimed at busy offices of all sizes.
Published by: In the Channel Media Ltd Company registration number: 14363401 Registered office address 14-18 Heddon Street, Mayfair, London, United Kingdom, W1B 4DA In conjunction with:
For resellers, peripherals can be an important revenue generator, and laminators can be a good upsell opportunity as businesses increasingly seek to keep physical documents well preserved.
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NEWS
Konica Minolta launches enhanced ‘World on Loan’ recycling programme
Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) Ltd has launched its enhanced ‘World on Loan’ consumables recycling programme. Delivered in partnership with its new recycling provider, Waterloo Business Management (WBM), the updated service offers a streamlined, zero-landfill solution for recycling genuine Konica Minolta printer consumables. As printer cartridge waste is classified as WEEE, it is illegal to dispose of it in general waste or export it without an IWS Notification. Therefore, Konica Minolta offers a fully compliant recycling solution that collects, inspects and processes used consumables for the recovery and reuse of raw materials. Designed to support sustainability goals of organisations of all sizes, the programme enables customers and partners to manage orders, request collections and access recycling documentation via a bespoke online portal. “We believe sustainability should be simple, secure and accessible,” said Ben Mills, environment manager at Konica Minolta. “This enhanced programme,
supported by our partnership with WBM, reflects our ongoing commitment to reducing environmental impact while improving the customer experience.” The new service allows orders for recycling boxes and consumable collections to be placed via the portal, email or telephone – saving time and simplifying logistics. Transparency is also enhanced, with waste transfer notes and recycling certificates available for download within 10 working days, supporting ISO14001 and EMAS compliance. Every collected item is processed using environmentally conscious methods that prioritise recycling and minimise ecological impact. No waste is sent to landfill, and materials are repurposed into high-quality polymers and other reusable resources. The programme accepts a range of genuine Konica Minolta consumables, including toner cartridges, bottles, drums and maintenance kits. Secure collection boxes are supplied free, and all recycling is handled by certified UK-based facilities operated by WBM. n
Ben Mills environment manager
konicaminolta.co.uk
Kodak Alaris and UT³ announce strategic partnership
Kodak Alaris and UT³, a Xenith company, have announced a strategic partnership that will see UT³ leverage scanners from Kodak Alaris alongside KODAK Info Input Solution intelligent document processing (IDP) software, to help organisations uncover hidden value and enhance IT investment opportunities. UT³ is launching a multi-stage AI Maturity Assessment to support customers in heavily regulated sectors including financial services, insurance, banking and legal, to effectively adopt AI. The assessment is designed to
help organisations understand what documents they already capture, where they sit on the AI maturity curve, and how to maximise the value of captured data to improve productivity, compliance and operational efficiency. Scanners and software from Kodak Alaris deliver fast, efficient image capture; OCR, forms recognition, document classification, intelligent data extraction, and workflow automation capabilities; reducing the time to convert paper-based or electronic documents into business- critical information. Info Input Solution is built around Kodak Alaris’ Open
kodakalaris.com
ut-3.co.uk
CONTINUED
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AD VOW
Fast, flawless and feature rich Brother's new A3 inkjet printers - designed to boost productivity in small office environments.
www.brotherzone.co.uk/j6000
Drive sales with Brother’s new A3 inkjet printers. Add value to your portfolio with Brother’s latest A3 inkjet devices – fast, reliable, and built for modern business needs. Featuring MAXIDRIVE technology, mobile connectivity, and robust security, they’re ideal for small offices seeking performance and versatility. With high-yield inks, intuitive touchscreens, and flexible paper handling, they offer strong upsell potential and recurring revenue from consumables. Easy to sell. Easy to support. Built to perform.
Learn more about the A3 inkjet range www.brotherzone.co.uk/j6000
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NEWS
CONTINUED
Intelligence design, in which pre-built models that understand documents are deployed within a workflow process. This, combined with Kodak Alaris’ professional services, pre- and post-sales support and after-sales service, will help UT³ to fast-track customers’ AI journeys and enable them to unlock automation opportunities across claims processing, accounts payable and other mission- critical processes. “Kodak Alaris has a long heritage in
information capture,” said Stuart Cassidy, head of business at UT³. “The quality and breadth of its scanner portfolio, coupled with innovation in IDP to deliver a complete end-to-end solution which ties directly into a customer’s AI journey were key drivers for this partnership. Together we will help organisations transition from manual, paper-based processes to streamlined, efficient workflows and benefit from actionable analytics to inform faster decision-making.” n
Epson achieves No. 1 market share for inkjet printers
Epson has taken the number one market position for volume of inkjet printers globally, a position previously held by HP, according to IDC worldwide figures for Q3 in 2025. “This is a significant achievement for us and one we’re very proud to have secured,” says Karl Angove, vice president for home and office print, Epson Europe. “This landmark success is the result of a continuous focus on product quality and customer value, creative marketing and external communications, and the strong relationships and partnerships we have developed within our teams and with our with channel and retail partners.”
Epson remains worldwide number one in ink tank printers by both units and value, since creating the category over 15 years ago. This new positioning for all inkjet volume is testament to its Heat-Free technology gaining increased traction within business and public sector environments. “I’m personally delighted with this success,” added Karl. “It’s a great way for us to start the New Year and positions us well to support further growth initiatives for inkjet printing during 2026.” Source: IDC, Quarterly Hardcopy Peripherals Tracker, Q3 2025 shipments, published Q4 2025 n
Karl Angove vice president,
home & office print, Epson Europe B.V.
epson.co.uk
New Ricoh Unity Partner Programme launches Ricoh UK has launched the Ricoh
Beyond the traditional levels, Ricoh Unity introduces specialisms across the Ricoh strategic portfolio that acknowledge partners' depth of expertise across the customer engagement lifecycle: 🔥 Sales = Specialist: Focused on revenue generation and market development 🔥 Sales + Pre-Sales = Expert: Enhanced capability including solution design and consultation 🔥 Sales + Pre-Sales + Technical = Elite: Comprehensive expertise spanning the entire customer journey. This flexible framework rewards revenue performance and technical
Unity Partner Programme, a strategic initiative designed to redefine partner collaboration, enhance partner and customer experience, and accelerate digital transformation and growth for partners in the UK. The programme is structured around four defined levels and recognises partner growth and success: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum. The levels create a progressive pathway where each stage unlocks increasingly valuable benefits, enhanced support resources and commercial advantages.
ricoh.co.uk
10
NEWS
proficiency, customer commitment, certifications, expertise in the market and brand loyalty. When partners progress through the levels, they gain access to an expanding portfolio of benefits including exclusive partner events, online Partner Portal, collaborative business planning tools, exclusive incentive opportunities and new automated tools designed to streamline the partner experience. The programme continues the flexibility, agility and ease of doing business that partners value in Ricoh’s existing programmes. Central to the initiative is the comprehensive Partner Capability Assessment, which evaluates organisations to determine their optimal entry point and future development
pathway within the programme. This assessment recognises historical financial performance and current capabilities, ensuring partners are positioned for maximum success from day one. n
Data Direct expands Bradford showroom
Data Direct Thames Valley Ltd’s Bradford showroom is now fully equipped and ready for live demonstrations of the latest wide- format and specialist print technologies, including the new Mutoh HA-1642, the Mutoh XpertJet 661UF, and a range of Rowe wide-format scanners. The installation of the Mutoh HA-1642 marks an important milestone for Data Direct and its reseller partners, offering hands-on access to Mutoh’s water-based UV technology. Designed to combine the environmental benefits of water-based inks with the durability and versatility of UV curing, the HA-1642 opens new opportunities across graphics, signage, décor and specialist applications.
In addition, visitors to the Bradford office can also experience the Mutoh XpertJet 661UF UV LED flatbed printer, which is ideal for personalisation, promotional items, packaging prototypes and short- run production. Its small footprint and broad media compatibility make it an attractive solution for entry-level and established print businesses looking to expand their service offering. Completing the demonstration line-up is a range of Rowe wide-format scanners, showcasing high-speed, high-accuracy document capture for CAD, GIS, AEC and technical reprographics environments. “Our Bradford showroom is designed to be a practical, hands-on environment where dealers can see real output, ask real questions and explore real opportunities,” said Caroline Savage, UK WF manager for Data Direct. “By bringing together Mutoh’s latest print innovations with Rowe’s market-leading scanning solutions, we’re giving our partners the confidence and insight they need to grow their wide-format business.” Demonstrations are now available by appointment. n
Caroline Savage sales manager
data-direct.co.uk
mutoh.eu/en
printinthechannel.co.uk
11
NEWS IN DEPTH
Kyocera names UFP as a new distributor
Kyocera Document Solutions UK has named UFP (UK) Ltd as a new Tier 1 distributor for its ECOSYS hardware and wholesale toner for all channel customers, as well as ECOSYS and TASKalfa fulfilment toner for Kyocera’s authorised Servicing Dealers. This represents a resumption of a previous partnership between the two companies, with UFP formerly being a distributor for
relationships with several Kyocera partners, which should ensure a seamless transition for resellers, dealers and customers. “It’s great to be working with UFP once again,” said Pete Lunn, head sales lead at Kyocera. “We’re always looking to expand our distribution network and connect with companies that offer long- standing expertise and experience in the reseller market. UFP ticks all the boxes in this respect, so we’re looking forward to seeing the partnership develop, and bringing the benefits of ECOSYS hardware and toner to more customers.” Adam Collier, general manager at UFP, added: “This strategic alliance underscores our shared commitment to excellence, innovation and sustainable growth. We look forward to leveraging our combined expertise to deliver exceptional value to our customers and strengthen our position in the market.” n
kyoceradocument solutions.co.uk
Kyocera genuine consumables. UFP will gain access to an array of
Kyocera devices and genuine toner, helping expand its product portfolio and deepen its relationships with customers. Meanwhile, Kyocera adds another distributor in the print and IT space to its network, strengthening its position in the reseller market. Kyocera and UFP will work closely, collaborating on existing and new business
Adam Collier general manager
ufpuk.com
opportunities to ensure favourable outcomes. UFP already has strong
Katun expands strategic distribution partnership with MyQ
Katun Corporation has expanded its strategic distribution partnership with MyQ. Katun now offers MyQ’s print management solutions to dealer partners in the United States, EMEA and Latin America. This expansion provides dealers with streamlined access to one of the industry’s most trusted solutions for secure, efficient and sustainable print management. MyQ’s platform simplifies print management with features like secure authentication, personalised device panels, advanced scanning, and workflow automation, helping businesses
and adaptable across diverse dealer environments. “Katun’s partnership with MyQ reinforces our commitment to delivering impactful solutions that add value for our dealer partners and their customers,” said Tony Ko, Katun’s vice president of hardware and business solutions. “MyQ streamlines management, strengthens security, and enhances the user experience, and we are proud to expand its availability across key global markets.” Andrius Keblas, chief marketing officer, MyQ, added: “We’re excited to see our partnership with Katun continue to grow globally following a strong start in the United States and Latin America. Expanding into EMEA is a natural next step and reinforces our shared commitment to delivering secure, efficient and user- friendly print management solutions.” n
katun.com
myq-solution.com/en
boost efficiency, maintain compliance and protect data. With multivendor support, Katun makes MyQ accessible
12
AD
Print that brings _Excellence to life
Move people and businesses forward with Canon quality print To stand out, businesses need the highest-quality prints. From brochures to presentations, your customers can generate the materials they desire with extremely low costs and maintenance. The power to move
Get in touch to find out how Canon can support your customers’ needs b2b.enquiries@cuk.canon.co.uk
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13
PRODUCT LAUNCH Canon corrPRESS iB17
Packing it all in Canon has launched the corrPRESS iB17, a digital press for industrial-scale corrugated packaging printing that can enable short- to medium-length runs to be cost efficient and turned around quickly.
With retail continuing to be as competitive as ever, manufacturers – especially small ones – are looking for ways to stand out from the crowd, and packaging is one way they can do that. But short print runs, especially on corrugated packaging, were often out of the question because of the cost of it. The rise of smaller retailers, looking to provide limited edition products, has increased the desire for short packaging print runs, and manufacturers are responding to this need. The latest to launch a product aimed at this market is Canon, which has launched the corrPRESS iB17, an inkjet press engineered for industrial-scale corrugated packaging production. Capable of digitally printing up to 8,000m2 per hour (15 million m2 per year), the corrPRESS iB17 delivers offset-like quality directly onto corrugated boards up to 1.7m wide with water-based inks and primer for indirect food contact. Increasing efficiency The corrPRESS iB17 enables cost-efficient short- to medium-length runs with ultra- fast turnaround times and requires fewer operators and lower skill levels. Designed for seamless integration into existing production environments, the corrPRESS iB17 offers outstanding productivity and digital flexibility, and extends the economic benefits of digital printing far beyond traditional short-run applications. The corrPRESS iB17 allows converters to achieve cost-efficient production for runs up to 20,000m2, extending digital printing viability well beyond traditional short-
runs. Supported by automated printhead cleaning and quality control systems, the press minimises operator intervention while maximising production efficiency.
Designed for seamless integration into
existing production environments, the corrPRESS iB17 offers outstanding productivity and digital flexibility,
Optimised performance Featuring Canon's proprietary, high- performance, 1200dpi piezo printheads and specially formulated, water-based pigment inks and primer, which provide an extended colour gamut with CMYK and later OVG, the corrPRESS iB17 achieves pre-print offset-like quality in the post- print process. This improves production efficiency by eliminating the traditional lamination step while reproducing vibrant, accurate and consistent colours, sharp text and precise detail on coated and uncoated topliners at rated speeds. The system also uses an advanced spot primer that ensures optimal ink adhesion and colour reproduction across the full range of corrugated materials. The ink is jetted onto the board immediately after the primer application without any drying in between, minimising the impact of drying on the board and contributing to a highly reliable production process. The drying technology in the corrPRESS iB17 has been optimised to minimise
and extends the economic
benefits of digital printing far beyond traditional short- run applications.
14
PRODUCT LAUNCH Canon corrPRESS iB17
contaminated water, which then must be filtered or released into the wastewater system, providing additional sustainability benefits. Drive to become leading force The launch of the corrPRESS iB17 is part of Canon’s drive to become a leading force in the digital labels and packaging production sector. It builds on Canon's expertise and experience in commercial digital printing and following the development roadmap presented as a concept at drupa 2024, the Canon corrPRESS iB17 will address the evolving needs of corrugated converters that face increasing pressure to deliver shorter runs with more variants, faster turnaround times and premium quality, and all without compromising cost efficiency. “Corrugated converters face rising demands for shorter runs, more variants and faster turnaround without compromising quality or cost,” says Duncan Smith, country director, production at Canon UK & Ireland. “The Canon corrPRESS iB17… empowers converters to respond to the changing demands with agility and unlock growth. “For Canon, the corrPRESS iB17 marks a major milestone in our journey to becoming a key player in the packaging industry and we’re especially excited that EMEA customers will be the first to benefit from this innovation. Although we’re new to corrugated, we bring many years of collaborative innovation from industrial- scale commercial print and will combine our digital expertise with converters’ value-chain knowledge to drive progress in packaging together.” n
corrugated board stress and energy consumption and to increase production efficiency. Covering about 80% of retail packaging applications, the system supports coated and uncoated boards up to 1.7m wide and 1.3m long, and ranging from 1mm to 8mm thick, at a linear speed of 80m per minute. Unusually for a digital corrugated press, Canon owns all the key components in the printing process – printheads, inks and drying – enabling Canon to optimise the system’s performance more easily. This high level of integration and synchronisation will result in exceptional levels of productivity and reliability. By combining proven proprietary inkjet technology with an industrial board transport system, Canon has developed a press that delivers offset-quality prints with outstanding productivity and digital flexibility, all developed for indirect food contact applications. Sustainability Canon has also been mindful of users’ sustainability concerns. For instance, the system’s design reduces waste through efficient print on demand and eliminates the use of printing plates and chemicals. In addition, and unlike
Duncan Smith country director, production, UK&I
canon.co.uk
“
For Canon, the corrPRESS iB17 marks a major milestone in our journey to becoming a key player in the packaging industry and we’re especially excited that EMEA customers will be the first to benefit from this innovation.
”
conventional technologies, the corrPRESS iB17 does not produce
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17
PRODUCT LAUNCH BROTHER J6000 SERIES
Small but mighty Brother UK has refreshed its J6000 inkjet line-up for small businesses, with the aim of helping them to upgrade to secure, high-volume A3 printing in a compact footprint.
For small businesses, time and money are often tight as the owner and their team seek to grow the business and turn it into a profitable, viable operation. This means that when it comes to printing, they want it to be fast, easy, reliable and cost-effective. Brother has been an established part of the A3 printer market for years catering to this segment, and now the company is renewing its efforts with a refreshed J6000 inkjet line-up. The new MFC-J6760DW and MFC- J6960DW replace existing devices and are designed for small businesses with up to five users. The refreshed line-up is aimed at customers with frequent A3 printing needs who want speed, quality and security, and forms part of the business’ strategy to meet growing customer demand for reliable, easy-to-use inkjet printers. Improved functionality As you would expect from upgraded products, the functionality has been improved. For instance, each device has an improved print speed (31ipm)
and larger memory (512mb) compared to previous models and comes with 700-pages black and 450-pages colour ink in-box. Both printers are equipped with Brother’s MAXIDRIVE technology, which supports ultra-fast, durable and enhanced quality colour printing. For customers requiring a bit more from their set-up, the MFC-J6960DW has a larger 8.8cm touchscreen, dual 250-sheet paper trays to handle higher volumes or multiple paper sizes without switching, and 100-sheet multi-purpose tray and double-sided scanning – ideal for teams handling regular admin, marketing materials or client paperwork.
The refreshed line-up is aimed at customers with frequent A3 printing needs who want speed, quality and security...
Brother MFC-J6760DW
Small footprint Brother has also been mindful that space is often at a premium for very small businesses, which are often based in home or small offices. With this in mind, the footprint of the printers has been kept compact. Nevertheless, both models are designed to deliver the full functionality businesses
18
PRODUCT LAUNCH BROTHER J6000 SERIES
rely on with scan, copy and fax features. Dual-band wireless (5GHz) and USB connectivity make setup and sharing simple, while the 50-page automatic document feeder, 100-sheet A4 and 50-sheet A3 output trays help teams handle multi-page jobs without disruption. Optional high-yield cartridges offer up to 6,000 pages in black and 5,000 in colour. Sustainability Mindful that sustainability is a priority for even smaller businesses today, the new devices are sold in Brother’s new fully recyclable, non-polystyrene brown cardboard packaging. This will help businesses to comply with workplace recycling legislation and contribute to their sustainability goals. Helping resellers meet demand The new models are also ideal for resellers working in the small business segment of the market, says Greig Millar, chief revenue officer at Brother UK. “The refreshed J6000 line-up has been designed around the real needs of small businesses who want professional-quality A3 printing in a device that fits into a small or home office environment, without hidden costs or complexity, and with the
control to print on their terms,” he says. “These upgraded models deliver faster print speeds and increased memory – all in a compact casing. But more than that, they reflect what our customers value most: reliable, low- maintenance devices that are simple to set up and manage. From seamless connectivity through to improved sustainability outcomes, we’re helping resellers meet the demand for print that just works, with no hidden catches. “Resellers can trust us to provide devices that make office-grade print accessible, affordable and easy to manage. And we’ll back that with the tools, incentives and support they need to sell with confidence.” n
Greig Millar chief revenue officer
brother.co.uk
“
Apeos 3560 series Resellers can trust us to provide devices that make office-grade print accessible, affordable and easy to manage.
”
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19
PRODUCT LAUNCH FUJIFILM ApeosPrint C4030 AND 5330
Single market Fujifilm has expanded its Apeos office portfolio with the new ApeosPrint C4030 and ApeosPrint 5330 A4 single function printers, which are aimed at busy offices of all sizes.
Developed by FUJIFILM Business Innovation Corp. of Japan, the ApeosPrint C4030 and ApeosPrint 5330 offer a consistent user experience, common security features and shared consumables with the Apeos MFPs
Fujifilm Europe GmbH has made a splash in the UK and European markets since it launched its first Apeos printers back in 2024. The multifunction printers (MFPs) in the range have proved popular among customers and have also won prestigious awards. Now, Fujifilm is looking to repeat this success in the single-function printer (SFP) market with the launch of two new A4 printers, the colour ApeosPrint C4030 and the monochrome ApeosPrint 5330. The SFPs offer strong security features with a small, space-saving design and are aimed at busy office teams. Both single-function printers are balanced deployment, built with the same controller and software platform as Fujifilm’s A3 and A4 Apeos MFPs. The ApeosPrint C4030 prints up to 40 pages per minute in colour and monochrome with image quality up to
1,200×2,400dpi. The ApeosPrint 5330, meanwhile, prints up to 53 pages per minute in monochrome at 1,200×1,200dpi. Automatic two-sided printing is standard, with device lifetimes of up to 300,000 pages for the C4030 model and 600,000 pages for the 5330. Simplified use Developed by FUJIFILM Business Innovation Corp. of Japan, the ApeosPrint C4030 and ApeosPrint 5330 offer a consistent user experience, common security features and shared consumables with the Apeos MFPs. This simplifies installation and maintenance and helps partners reduce the complexity of stock management for accessories, consumables and spare parts. These SFPs also offer a 5-inch colour touch panel, identical to the one used on Apeos A4 multifunction printers.
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PRODUCT LAUNCH FUJIFILM ApeosPrint C4030 AND 5330
Users can personalise the home screen, print directly from USB, or send jobs from mobile devices using software and services such as Print Utility, AirPrint and Mopria Print Service, with optional Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Direct connectivity that offers more flexibility in modern hybrid workplaces. The ApeosPrint C4030 and ApeosPrint 5330 printers can handle a wide range of media, from envelopes and thick paper to long sheets up to 215.9×520mm, with paper capacity scalable up to 2,350 sheets using additional 550-sheet feeders. Security and sustainability Printer security is a priority for businesses of all sizes today, and Fujifilm has sought to ensure its printers are as secure as possible. For instance, both models support Fujifilm’s Secure Print and optional IC card-based Private Charge Print services to help prevent unauthorised access to private documents. They are compatible with the latest WPA3 wireless security standard and incorporate a TPM 2.0 security chip to protect device data, as well as self- monitoring and self-repairing firmware that can detect and recover from tampering attempts. Optional SSD storage can be integrated with Fujifilm’s new serverless authentication and on-demand print options.
Another priority for businesses is sustainability, and again that has been considered in the design of the printers, especially energy use. Fujifilm’s Super EA- Eco toner fuses at a lower temperature, reducing power consumption. The toner- save mode (adjustable in 1% increments) also helps offices reduce waste and running costs, without compromising everyday office quality and performance. Same language As mentioned, to give users assurance, the ApeosPrint C4030 and 5330 share the same industrial design language as Fujifilm’s A4 multifunction printers, which were recognised with iF and Red Dot design awards in 2025. The award juries highlighted the compact footprint, clean lines and suitability for modern, flexible office environments. “The new ApeosPrint devices enable our channel partners to meet the requirements of their customers: robust, high-speed A4 printers that integrate seamlessly into existing Apeos fleets,” says Matthew Wrighton, head of the Device Technology division of FUJIFILM Europe. “Because they share the same platform as our A3 and A4 multifunction printers, customers get consistent operation, strong security and easier management across every floor and office.” n
Matthew Wrighton head of device technology
www.fujifilm.com/uk/eu
“
The new ApeosPrint devices enable our channel partners to meet the requirements of their customers: robust, high- speed A4 printers that integrate
seamlessly into existing Apeos fleets.
”
printinthechannel.co.uk
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PREVIEW 2026
The future’s bright With the new year already almost a month old, it is a good time to look forward to what the rest of 2026 has in store for the print channel. Here, thought leaders from across the print channel give their opinions on what the year may bring.
While 2025 brought plenty of opportunities in the print channel – with printer fleet refreshes and growing opportunities in workflow management, for instance – there were challenges too with tight budgets for many customers and shifting priorities. Also in 2025, security issues continued to ascend the list of priorities for business owners, as did sustainability concerns. While these issues will continue to be
priorities, this coming year looks to be an exciting one in the print channel, with the promise of innovation through AI, as well as new products coming on stream to help tempt customers into making investments. Over the next pages, thought leaders from across the print channel give their opinions on what 2026 may bring to the sector.
Peter Holland , regional sales manager, Northern Europe, Jarltech RFID labelling is becoming increasingly important as businesses across a range of sectors look for greater visibility, traceability and efficiency throughout the supply chain. At Jarltech, we are seeing growing demand for RFID-enabled solutions as organisations move beyond basic barcode tracking and look for real-time insight into the status and location of goods. improving speed and accuracy while reducing labour costs. It also provides better data integrity and enables businesses to monitor shipments, assets and inventory in real time, helping them to make operational improvements and reduce errors. Customers are increasingly demanding RFID labels and printers that are reliable,
Adoption is particularly strong in sectors such as retail, logistics and warehousing, manufacturing, healthcare and transportation. In retail, RFID is helping to improve inventory accuracy and reduce shrinkage, while in logistics and warehousing it enables faster, more automated handling of goods. Manufacturing customers value RFID for work-in-progress tracking and asset management, and in healthcare it plays a critical role in tracking equipment, consumables and pharmaceuticals safely and accurately. The benefits of RFID labelling are clear. Unlike traditional barcodes, RFID does not require line-of-sight scanning and can read multiple tags simultaneously,
easy to integrate and scalable. They want printers that can handle RFID and standard label printing, deliver consistent encoding accuracy and integrate seamlessly with existing warehouse management and ERP systems. Durability, ease of use and strong vendor support are also key considerations. AI is beginning to play a role in RFID development, particularly in optimising print and encoding accuracy, predictive maintenance for printers, and analysing the large volumes of data generated by RFID systems. Over time, this will help customers gain even more value from their RFID investments. For resellers, it is important to highlight RFID as part of a complete solution
Peter Holland
jarltech.com
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22
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PREVIEW 2026
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rather than a standalone technology. This includes the right printers, labels, software integration and ongoing support. Education is key, as many customers are still early in their RFID journey. RFID labelling is set to grow rapidly as
supply chains become more complex and data driven. As costs continue to fall and technology matures, RFID will become an increasingly standard component of modern logistics and inventory management. n
Rick Dove , pre-sales technical specialist, Epson UK Epson remains optimistic about its
One of the key challenges in 2026 will be managing increasing cybersecurity risks, particularly as print environments become more connected and integrated into wider IT infrastructures. Ensuring printers are treated as secure network endpoints will be crucial for vendors and channel partners. At the same time, businesses will likely face growing pressure to reduce environmental impact while continuing to digitise and automate customer workflows. Balancing sustainability goals with the need for efficiency and automation will be an ongoing challenge for the print channel as customer expectations continue to evolve. n
prospects in 2026, driven by continued demand for more efficient, reliable and sustainable print solutions such as heat- free inkjet printing. As organisations place greater emphasis on reducing energy consumption and waste, Epson’s inkjet technology continues to become more relevant within managed print services and wider workplace strategies. Customers are looking for long-term solutions that balance cost control with environmental performance. This creates strong opportunities for technologies and businesses in 2026 that can deliver consistent high-quality output while helping organisations lower power usage and minimise consumables.
Rick Dove
epson.co.uk
Stuart Miller , UK&I director of channel partners, Canon 2026 will be a year of evolution for the channel, as print and IT partners continue to redefine their value through services, software and smarter integration. The focus is shifting from short-term transactional sales to more solutions-focused
more sustainable customer experiences. Elsewhere, security will remain a key focus. Partners will need to prioritise secure information management and compliance-ready workflows. AI will play an increasing role in predicting and preventing breaches through smarter monitoring, authentication and data protection tools. Alongside this, efficiency and serviceability will become increasingly important, with greater emphasis on data-driven optimisation and modular, upgradable devices that extend product lifecycles and reduce disruption. This will continue to change the role of the engineer, shifting from reactive maintenance towards proactive,
partnerships, creating opportunities for partners that can help customers navigate complex challenges. This evolution supports a more resilient and future-proof business model for the channel. For the print channel, 2026 will reward partners that can move beyond hardware- led conversations to how AI, automation and connected services can deliver measurable business value. Success will come from partners that prioritise expertise and collaboration for smarter,
Stuart Miller
canon.co.uk
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PREVIEW 2026
insight-led optimisation supported by diagnostics, data and remote services. Sustainability will also stay high on the agenda. Customers are demanding more visibility into their environmental impact, pushing partners to prove the measurable value of sustainable solutions. From optimising device usage to reducing waste through predictive servicing, AI can help align environmental performance with operational efficiency. The biggest challenge for businesses in the print channel will be navigating digital transformation at pace while continuing to deliver simplicity and trust for customers. As print increasingly intersects with software, automation, security and data-driven services, partners will need to help customers modernise without adding unnecessary complexity. This is especially critical as organisations juggle cost pressures, compliance requirements and sustainability goals alongside digital
ambitions. The partners that succeed will be those that can translate technology into clear, relevant outcomes. Offering personalised expertise and tailored advice will be essential, ensuring customers receive solutions that genuinely fit their needs rather than generic offerings. Transparency and authenticity throughout the buying journey will remain vital to maintaining trust as solutions become more sophisticated. At the same time, continued investment in IT, data and AI capabilities will be non- negotiable. Partners must attract and develop talent that can bridge traditional print knowledge with digital skills such as automation, analytics and software integration. Those who fail to invest in people and capabilities risk falling behind as digital transformation becomes a baseline expectation rather than a differentiator. n
Marcin Pichur , regional vice president sales, DocuWare This year, I’m optimistic about the prospects for our business and those who operate in the broader print channel.
and regulatory barriers that keep paper central to business operations. This is where intelligent document processing (IDP) will play an increasingly pivotal role in 2026. IDP bridges the gap between entrenched paper workflows and the need for structured, searchable and actionable data. For the print channel, this means every printed or scanned document becomes part of a real time, data rich ecosystem rather than a static record. Security will also rise sharply on the agenda. As print fleets become more connected and data rich, organisations are demanding stronger controls, automated compliance and real time visibility. IDP strengthens this by ensuring that information captured through print and scan workflows is accurate, auditable and standardised – all critical foundations for any modern security posture. The biggest challenge for the channel
Despite years of predicted decline, print remains deeply embedded in organisational workflows, particularly in sectors where compliance, auditability and operational certainty are non negotiable. We’re now seeing a real shift in how organisations expect print to function. More integrated, intelligent and connected to the data that drives operations. That creates a significant opportunity for those operating at the intersection of print and digital transformation. Many of the trends that shaped 2025 will continue, especially the reliance on paper-based processes in environments where digital maturity was expected to be further along. The challenge isn’t the absence of digital tools, but the cultural
Marcin Pichur
start.docuware.com
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will be overcoming the misconception that digital transformation is a one- off project. Many customers still underestimate the hidden costs of manual document handling, delays, errors, compliance risks and operational blind spots. Those who reposition print as part of a broader intelligence strategy, powered by automation and IDP, will be
best placed to succeed. Ultimately, I believe 2026 will reward those who help customers bridge the gap between entrenched paper workflows and the need for data driven operations. The print channel’s future lies not in the volume of pages produced, but the value of the information those pages contain. n
Deyon Antoine , product manager, ToshibaTec We’re optimistic about Toshiba prospects in 2026, and not despite the decline in traditional print volumes, but because of it. As organisations continue to move away from paper-first processes, we’ve redefined our focus: innovating around services that deliver real business value, not just hardware.
scanning and archiving 🔥 Continued expansion in barcode labelling, a strong recurring revenue stream driven connectivity, integration and PDF-first print 🔥 AI-powered digitisation, transforming MFPs into intelligent capture and workflow hubs that facilitate end-to- end business processes 🔥 Security and compliance, steered by identity-centric access controls, alongside robust hybrid-cloud options 🔥 An emphasis on sustainability, with a circular-design ethos, longevity and eco-smart toner recycling. However, this transformation carries challenges; hybrid work, cloud migration and AI-driven expectations raise the bar on security and governance. Shrinking margins in hardware will force vendors to embrace services, automation and sustainability strategies. Success hinges on evolving from device vendors to transformation partners, trusted providers who deliver cloud, security and intelligent workflow outcomes. In 2026, it won’t be about print it will be about positioning print as a gateway to digital transformation. With our integrated Toshiba ecosystem from e‑FOLLOW.cloud and e‑BRIDGE MFPs to A‑BRID powered label printers we’re confident we’ll continue empowering customers with measurable value in an AI-powered, data-driven world. n
The wider print channel finds itself at a turning point. Service-led models including cloud print management, workflow automation and IDP will define winners. Toshiba’s e‑FOLLOW. cloud SaaS platform underpins this shift, enabling secure, serverless cloud print environments for hybrid teams. In tandem, our e‑BRIDGE family of MFPs integrates natively with back-end systems like CRM and ERP, delivering seamless data capture and secure workflows. Adjacent growth markets are equally promising. Our A‑BRID-powered industrial barcode and label printers bring smart, PDF-first printing and cloud- managed fleet visibility to logistics, retail and manufacturing, embedding print into mission-critical processes. For Capex-prioritised sectors, we’ve also enabled leasing solutions to unlock access to these platforms during budget uncertainty. Throughout 2026, major trends will include: 🔥 Deeper adoption of cloud-enabled document services, for automated
Deyon Antoine
toshibatec.co.uk
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