Konica Minolta South Africa (KMSA) has not only maintained its market leading position, but has also increased its market share significantly, even though tough economic conditions resulted in a declined market, according to the latest results released by market data specialist InfoSource.
The firm’s survey for 2014 recorded Konica Minolta South Africa’s total share of the multifunctional printer market at 24.1%, a significant increase over the previous year’s 17.4% market share. This is even more noteworthy when considering that the total market size decreased by over eight percent; from 85,489 units 2013 to 77 941 in 2014.
‘In this unstable economic climate, clients are seeking more than just a box dropper,’ said Marianna Gdanis, business unit manager at KMSA. ‘They are looking for a trusted document management partner that can add value, is reliable, has proven expertise and can provide an offering that goes beyond the provision of hardware to include effective software and ongoing support.
‘At Konica Minolta South Africa we have a strong, two-pronged approach. The first has been to focus on our core products; whilst the second has been to maintain strong service and advisory relationships. A downturn in the economy often results in a slump in the service industry as a whole, as companies try to handle more in-house to save money. However, a certain class of service provider will see an upswing during hard times. At Konica Minolta South Africa, we specialise in upgrading and maintaining existing equipment and products to help our clients fully leverage what they have now. This dedication has not gone unrewarded.’
While its total market share grew, the company’s share of the colour market also increased year-on-year from 26.7% to an incredible 30.8%. Furthermore, the share of the black and white market was up to 16.6% in 2014, taking the company from the third spot in the previous year to the top of the polls, which is significant given that this market segment decreased by almost 14%.
‘The biggest benefit of hard times is that companies get hurt for inefficiencies that they tolerated in better times. One of the best signs of company health is a business in a struggling industry that is still expanding; it is much easier to spot a strong company without the white noise of a strong economy.
‘Konica Minolta South Africa is delighted with these results, as it shows that our continuous diversification is paying off, allowing us to help improve businesses’ efficiencies and enhance their working environments. Our clients can remain confident that they are dealing with the market leader,’ she concluded.
