Sharp to launch sub-Rs 7,000 inkjet printers

Taking its competitors head on, Sharp Business Systems (India), a joint venture between Sharp Corporation, Japan and Larsen & Toubro, India, is all set to launch a new model of inkjet printers in the sub-Rs 7,000 segment.

The new product, Sharp AJ-1100, is targeted at the growing home segment and takes on rival HP's 930C model. While Sharp's AJ-1100 may share similar features with HP's 930C model, Sharp has an obvious edge over HP where the price is concerned. "Already the shipment has started from Japan and the product would be commercially available in the next couple of weeks," said S Nazeer, Sales Manager - IT, Sharp Business Systems (India) Limited.

Sharp AJ-1100, which is to hit the market soon, has better dpi resolution, individual ink tanks for zero-wastage, ink monitoring system and good print speed. "This apart, the product comes packed with several other advanced features which will not be normally available in the printers falling under this price range," said

Nazeer.

With the launch of the AJ-1100, Sharp is confident of gaining up to 25 percent market share in the home segment. "It is quoted below Rs 7,000 mainly to attract the home segment by offering a superior quality product at an affordable cost," he said. Sharp distributes printer products exclusively through Delhi-based Salora International, while notebooks and LCD monitors are directly dealt by the company itself with the channels.

Sharp claims the new inkjet printer is the first price sensitive product from its fold, which is expected to make a major dent in the market especially by eating into its competitor's market share.

The company's local office here has completed appointing channel partners under the recently evolved `Sharp Authorized Dealer' program and is fully charged to attract business from all circuits. "Recently, we have launched the world's thinnest notebook in the market and many innovative products are in the offing," added

Nazeer.