Dot-Matrix Printers

Epson’s six-year reign came to an end this year, as TVSE

emerged the winner. The brand was voted as the most preferred one for dot matrix

printers this year. Interestingly, since 1989, the User’s Choice winner in

this segment has been either Epson or TVSE, barring 1994, when Wipro shared the

spot with Epson. This year, Wipro has managed the third spot, the same as last

year. Another brand seems to be gaining popularity this year. Panasonic, who

hadn’t managed to enter the User’s Choice Club so far, has made an entry

with a UPI of 12.

As per the survey, current usage for Epson printers was

reported to be the highest, followed by TVSE. However, TVSE has managed to pull

the mindshare from Epson to become the most-preferred brand for future purchase.

Last year, it had taken a huge jump to reach the runner up spot. This year, it

has apparently continued its stupendous performance to take away the gold.

At one time, dot-matrix printers were the only viable option

everywhere, be it home or office. However, with the entry of laser and inkjet

printers, dot-matrix printers became restricted to a niche segment. They thrive

where volume or multi-part printing is required. As they give the lowest

per-print cost, they thrive in price-sensitive markets too.

The criterion for buying dot-matrix printers has been voted

as quality, followed by service and support. TVSE draws most of its support from

the South. Interestingly, the next big mindshare segment for TVSE is in the

East. Epson enjoys most of its support from the West, followed by the South and

the East. Support from the North is slightly low for both brands.

Earlier, Epson was synonymous with a dot-matrix printer. However, looking at

the results, this might change to TVSE. Will these two continue their reign in

this segment, or will some other player, like Wipro take away the cake next

year? We’ll print that out next year.