Big potential for printing services

Professional printing in photo labs and printout services are a potential growth sector for Epson (Thailand).The company has held a "Month of Pro" campaign this month to promote its Pro Graphic business and address the message of Epson's capability of large format printing technology.

According to Epson (Thailand) managing director Yunyong Muneemongkoltorn, Epson has some 50 percent market share in graphic art printing and the company plans aggressive marketing in the potential segments of photo lab and printout services.

Epson is attempting to boost market share in the existing sector and expand more, the managing director said, adding that four target segments - proofing; studio and mini lab; photographers; and organisation users - are key targets for the second half-year, together with continual product launches.

"The number of SLR photographers is increasing and we would like to turn those who love to take photos to love printing as well," he said, noting that the strategy will cover specialised channels, strategic partner liaisons, niche marketing and dedicated programs

"Large format printing will likely become more of a consumer market, as we have see in modern trade in the US market," Yungyong said.

Palawat Nakayodhin, manager of Epson (Thailand)'s ProGraphic department, noted that the market for large format printing is potentially huge.

Palawat noted that the Month of Pro campaign does not only focus on those who love taking photos, but also on showcasing that Epson ProGraphic can help entrepreneurs to create business as well.

"Studios and mini labs need only invest some 200,000 baht for the large format printing equipment, be it a 40-inch or 50-inch scale, and this can help increase their value-added service," he said.

The campaign which has been held all through November, also offers discounts of 20 to 40 percent on certain products.

Epson expects to maintain growth of 20 percent for its ProGraphic products this year.