The printer and copier market has experienced a significant shift in recent years. In a recent presentation by Jason Doran and Sherry Hao of Guangzhou Zhono Microelectronics Co., Ltd, they shed light on the latest trends and challenges in the industry.
The market is ripe with growth opportunities, from the rise of new printer brands to the increasing demand for aftermarket replacement consumables.
Established in 2013, Zhono Microelectronics is one of the leading manufacturers of chips for printers and copiers. Their research and development team follows Integrated Product Development (IPD) process. It is a systematic and collaborative approach to product development that involves the participation of different groups and functions throughout the entire product development process, from concept to launch. It can significantly shorten the development time frame.
With 50% of its staff working in R&D and more than 20% of its revenues reinvested in R&D, the company is dedicated to innovation and staying ahead of the competition.
Zhono’s product line supports over 10,000 models, including laser printers, digital copiers, inkjet printers, ribbon printers, micro printers, and 3D printers. Their chip testing process is thorough, including testing OEM cartridges with OEM chips, Zhono cartridges with Zhono chips, compatible cartridges with Zhono chips, and finally, 30 simulated end-user tests.
The presentation highlighted the latest shipment trends in the printer and copier market. Based on IDC reports, HP shipments declined by 9.9%, while Canon increased by 26.1% in Q3 of 2022 compared to Q3 of 2021. Epson and Brother also experienced changes in shipments. Pantum, a relatively new printer brand, saw a massive increase of 78.7% from a lower starting point in 2021, now ranking as the number 5 printer brand.
Zhono also reported that more printer brands are emerging in the Chinese market and then entering the international market. The demand for aftermarket replacement consumables is increasing, as cited by IDC’s EMEA IPDS Survey. During the COVID-19 pandemic, 66% of respondents said they used non-genuine/recycled cartridges due to a shortage of OEM consumables. About two-thirds of respondents continued or will continue to use replaced cartridges, even after OEM consumables become available, creating an opportunity for remanufacturers.
The Recycler recently reported that 35% of used printer hardware stays in Europe instead of being exported to other markets, compared to only 10% five years ago. This trend indicates a potential growth opportunity for companies specialising in printer hardware recycling.
Zhono’s Progeasy chip resetter, which supports HP, Canon, Ricoh, Xerox, Samsung, Toshiba, Kyocera, and other consumables, was also highlighted in the presentation. The chip resetter helps extend the life of printer consumables, providing cost savings for businesses and consumers.
According to Zhono, the printer and copier market constantly evolves, with new players and trends emerging. Zhono Microelectronics is at the forefront of innovation and is well-positioned to take advantage of the opportunities in the market.