Laser market grows by nineteen per cent in Q1 2004

Contexts SalesWatch research, tracking sales of business and consumer technology products through indirect channels of distribution in Europe, recorded that monochrome laser sales in the top four European economies grew by 13.5% year-on-year, the growth almost exclusively concentrated in the UK. Colour laser sales continued to grow, with Context noting an increase in sales of 73% in Q1 2004 over Q1 2003.

HP maintained its number one position in market share with 45%, unchanged from the same quarter a year ago. Brother held the number two position with 13%, up from 11.5%, with Kyocera Mita in third place with 9.5% market share, unchanged from Q1 2003.

HP also continued to lead the way in colour laser sales in these four countries with 37% market share, down from 42% in Q1 2003. Epson saw the largest market share gains, up to 21% in Q1 2004 from 12% a year ago.

Revenues, however, saw a drop by 2% year-on-year, according to Context, as the continued move to the low-end affected Average Selling Prices.