Sharp and HP are Likely to Enter Copier Manufacturing Partnership

Sharp is rumored to possibly get an OEM deal with HP to make copier machines. The two OEMs are said to be planning to also work on toner and other copier supplies.

Chicago Tribune reported on the rumors from "a source familiar with the matter", which outlined that Sharp "may get" an OEM (original equipment manufacturing) deal to manufacture copier machines under HP’s brand.

The source noted that "supply of copiers to [HP] could begin as early as the second half of the current business year" ending in March 2014, and declined to be identified "because a formal deal had yet to be signed" by the two OEMs.

The rumors come after Samsung’s attempts to co-opt Sharp’s printer and copier businesses with its own, starting with it becoming Sharp’s largest shareholder and buying a stake in Sharp. Sharp rejected the offer from Samsung to buy both its printer and copier units before calling off the fledging joint copier business plans that Samsung had suggested.

Further more Japan Times reported on potential details of a partnership between Sharp and HP. The new details include the provision set by Sharp that "some of its digital copiers" manufactured for HP would be "for sale under its name", as well as Sharp "consider[ing] working with HP on toners and other supplies".

Sharp reportedly aims to "expand production of copiers to make up for its losses in the liquid crystal business", whilst HP "seeks to enhance its product line-up by adding Sharp’s copiers", which can print up to A3-size in comparison to HP’s A4-size devices.

Source: The Recycler Magazine