According to a new multi-client study from InfoTrends, the majority of consumers are looking for toner and cartridges that deliver on price, quality, and service. A small portion of the respondents indicated that they are willing to pay more for the best quality, however, it appears that most consumers are looking for products of adequate quality that are not too expensive.

The multi-client study in which this data was uncovered focuses on the U.S. color network copier market and includes some baseline questions on monochrome use for comparison. The study reveals information related to how users prefer to pay for toner, such as click charges or buying toner separate from the service contract; attitudes toward aftermarket color copier toner quality; black & white vs. color use on a color machine; color printing trends; general media; color copier applications/media with color laser information included for comparison; paper used in color network copiers; paper; media brands and buying; and recycling/environmental initiatives. The report provides answers to questions such as:

• What are consumers’ opinions on aftermarket toner quality and use?
• Is loyalty to the dealer a factor in purchases of toner for color network copiers?
• What types of applications are being printed on what devices?
• What type of printing is being conducted in the home as opposed to in the office?
• What size and type of paper is being used for various applications?

While this report focuses on the usage and options of color MFP copier users, the results from similar questions for color laser printer users are also included.

This study is part of a new series of user survey reports aimed at gaining insight into multiple hot topics in the imaging supplies market. The reports focus on end-user buying behavior and usage patterns for supplies across the home and corporate environments. Results for business users are detailed according to industry, company size, and expenditures, while results for home respondents are broken out according to age, gender, income, stage of life cycle, and users that work from home.  There are a total of four studies focused on emerging trends related to inkjet ink, color laser toner, MFP copier toner, and paper.

Research for the  User Survey Report Series includes a blend of primary research (through structured Web surveys) with commentary on the answers by InfoTrends analysts. InfoTrends surveyed a total of 2,300 decision-makers. The end-user research illustrates brand preferences, price sensitivity, product requirements, decision tradeoffs, and other factors influencing purchasing decisions.

The executive style format of the reports will allow for a quick and easy read, and our expert analysis will go beyond the obvious and provide insight into key trends that are shaping the industry today and into the future. Each report includes:

• An Executive Summary highlighting key issues, findings, and overall recommendations
• A chart for each question with a bulleted summary of key points and trends
• Data tabs, charts, and the questionnaire from the study

The reports are modular to allow for customization and flexibility in purchasing. For more information on the study or to make a purchase, please contact Scott Phinney at +1 781 616 2100, ext. 123 or scott_phinney@infotrends.com.

InfoTrends, a Questex company, is the leading worldwide market research and strategic consulting firm for the digital imaging and document solutions industry. We provide research, analysis, forecasts, and advice to help clients understand market trends, identify opportunities, and develop strategies to grow their businesses. Additional information about InfoTrends is available on the Web at www.infotrends.com.

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