( Weymouth, MA) June 17, 2003…According to a new report by CAP Ventures, the total market for inkjet cartridges in Europe will grow from 246.4 million units in 2001 to 346 million units in 2006, a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7%. The aftermarket accounted for 14% of this market in 2001 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 10.5% to 16% market share in 2006. CAP Ventures findings are available immediately in a new white paper entitled Overview of the Western European Inkjet Cartridge Aftermarket. 

“The aftermarket is an important part of the inkjet printing landscape, but it will face complex challenges as it works to grow its share of the overall inkjet cartridge market,” commented Norah Seery a Director at CAP Ventures.  “These challenges will come from a number of areas including, more complicated products from OEMs in terms of new products, applications, types of ink, and media; continued market consolidation; and the use of smart chips.”

CAP Ventures believes that ultimately the aftermarket and OEM companies in the cartridge market will continue to exist side by side.  The market, although challenging, is large enough for both to make a healthy profit.

CAP Ventures report provides readers with an update on the European inkjet aftermarket. It discusses the size of the inkjet aftermarket and how it is broken down into various categories such as brand of cartridge and type of cartridge. The report also provides information on the key trends and challenges in today’s market such as smart chips, collecting empties, and competition with OEMs.

The complete report is available immediately to client of CAP Ventures’ European Communication Supplies Consulting Service, but can also be purchased separately. To learn more about the report or to make a purchase, please contact Alison Hipp at , ext. 126 or via e-mail at  .