CONTINUED
l Higher resolution and speed: Advances in printing technology allow for sharper, high- resolution outputs at faster speeds l Seamless integration with IoT and smart systems: Thermal label printers now integrate seamlessly with IoT networks and smart systems, enabling real-time inventory tracking and management, helping businesses streamline workflows, enhance accuracy and adapt prevention actions if needed l Sustainability-focused innovations: The shift toward sustainability has led to the
of recyclable and compostable label materials, linerless printing solution and green package design that can meet sustainability goals. Another challenge has been the labour shortage for industries needing to staff roles focused on data collection and management. To address this, businesses adopted AIDC technologies, automating labour-intensive processes with tools like barcodes, RFID tags, print & apply system and biometric systems. These solutions enhanced data accuracy and minimised waste, proving beneficial in sectors such as retail, manufacturing and logistics. Rising cyber threats have also heightened the need for robust data security and access control, particularly for networked devices like printers. To combat this, organisations prioritised compliance with cybersecurity regulations, such as the UK PSTI, and implemented enhanced security measures for printer firmware. I believe those trends of 2024 will carry on in 2025 and even longer.
Michelle Hu product director
adoption of eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient designs. Features like
linerless labels, Energy Star compliance and recyclable options are becoming standard. TSC Auto ID and other thermal printer manufacturers faced several challenges in 2024, but also had innovative ways to overcome them. For instance, the rising demand for eco- friendly solutions has resulted in the creation
emea.tscprinters.com
Stuart Miller , director UK&I Canon channel partners, Canon 2024 presented channel businesses with a fresh set of opportunities, as well as some
For example, Canon’s imageFORCE C7165 MFP harnesses innovations such as machine learning AI to support new levels of security, reliability and quality for businesses. Additionally, this device enables businesses to track environmental performance and monitor their impact, which will continue to be high on the agenda for channel businesses. By focusing on diversification, channel businesses will be better positioned to respond to increased demand and more complex requests from customers. However, a key challenge is that many customers may be wary of introducing new services, unless they can demonstrate the return on investment. To address this, manufacturers need to provide resellers with tools that measure performance in line with customers’ business goals. As technology continues to advance, software and security will only become more of a priority for channel businesses in 2025. Canon is committed to ensuring our sales channel is fit for future success, so we have introduced desk-based sales and repositioned account manager roles to better support our partners. We are also continuing to invest in Canon Business Centres based in the UK&I.
challenges. The rapid advancement of technology has meant that it is important now more than ever for manufacturers to focus on strengthening their relationships with channel partners to help them adapt and thrive in the evolving market. This year, Canon has focused on building a strong value proposition. We are committed to investing in long-term partner relationships, providing them with tailored resources that enable them to offer customers confident, forward-thinking counsel. Encouraged to find new ways to increase revenue, we have seen channel partners look to expand their offering this year. For example, many of Canon’s partners are now breaking into the Software-as-a-Service space by offering services such as Canon’s uniFLOW Online software. Alongside security, manufacturers and resellers have continued to focus on optimising workflows so that customers can achieve maximum productivity, without compromising on quality and helping them to achieve wider sustainability goals. Recent advancements in technology, such as the widespread adoption of AI have unlocked new capabilities in the print market.
Stuart Miller, director UK&I Canon channel partners
canon.co.uk
16
Powered by FlippingBook