MPS FOR RETAIL AND HOSPITALITY BUSINESSES
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GDPR and compliance policies,” he says. “MPS allows businesses to track usage across departments and properties to identify savings opportunities and reduce environmental impact through data-driven insights and intelligent print policies.” Trends But what customers in the retail and hospitality sectors want from their MPS solutions is changing. Deyon notes that there is a need too for advanced analytics and predictive maintenance for more informed business decisions and to identify print cost savings. “Customers also want mobile printing solutions for the hybrid and mobile employees as well as solutions for BYOD to enhance the guest experience and easy and seamless integration into existing systems,” he says. Trevor adds that there is a significant increase in the migration to cloud-based services in both sectors as they search for new technologies to drive down costs. “Large retailers and hospitality chains are looking to reduce print and replace with a digital process,” he says. “These are long-term projects, so any new MPS will need to support current requirements and the agreed future print strategy. Any MPS contract should have the flexibility to handle fluctuations in print volumes without penalty payments.” Peter adds that security and compliance are becoming top priorities. “Especially for businesses rolling out print technology across multiple sites,” he says. “Customers want easy-to-use solutions that work with their existing systems and support compliance without adding complexity. Resellers can play a key role by recommending secure, scalable options that meet these needs and help build long-term trust.” AI influence As with many sectors, AI is influencing MPS solutions for retail and hospitality
businesses. Deyon notes that AI is already implemented in cloud-based management solutions like Toshiba’s e-BRIDGE CloudConnect to help with predictive maintenance, which minimises device downtime. “AI can also help with business process automation, for intelligent, faster and more efficient document processing and data handling,” he adds. Trevor agrees, adding that Kyocera is adding AI features to its devices to reduce customer intervention and maximise productivity. “Hospitality venues may not be in large conurbations, so it’s important that maintenance services offered to companies in these locations are not compromised,” he explains. “Kyocera offer a nationwide service with stringent SLAs. “Kyocera Fleet Services, a predictive and automated service tool, can automatically replenish consumables supplies, fix devices issues online and where an engineer is required, ensure the correct spare parts are with the technician before attending a call. All of this reduces downtime and ensures a seamless nationwide service offering.” Reseller conversations When talking to customers in these sectors about MPS, resellers should highlight a variety of benefits. “Emphasise automated supply replenishment, remote monitoring and fleet optimisation to reduce downtime and manual intervention,” says Deyon. “Also detailed reporting on print usage can help to identify waste and reduce unnecessary printing. “Resellers should also talk about predictable monthly costs and cost- saving strategies like print rules and device consolidation.” “Position MPS as a fully managed solution, not just hardware, but ongoing support, maintenance and expert guidance,” he says. Security is another key CONTINUED
Peter Shackleton head of end user sales & MPS lead
brother.co.uk
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Customers want easy-to-use solutions that work with their existing systems and support compliance without adding complexity.
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