Lexmark, a well-established name in the printing industry, was a household name for decades. Founded in 1991, the company was known for producing high-quality printers and imaging solutions for individuals and businesses alike. But is Lexmark still making printers? In this article, we’ll explore the company’s journey, its transformation, and the current state of its manufacturing operations.
History of Lexmark
Lexmark’s journey began in the early 1990s as a spin-off from IBM. Initially known as IBM Printing Systems, the company was led by George Scharfenberger and a team of experienced professionals from IBM. In 1991, the company was renamed Lexmark International, Inc. and went public in 1995. The renaming marked the beginning of a new era for the company, which would eventually become one of the world’s leading manufacturers of printers and imaging solutions.
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, Lexmark continued to grow and expand its product portfolio. The company introduced innovative printing technologies, including laser and inkjet printers, and expanded its operations globally. However, the rise of low-cost competitors and the increasing saturation of the printing market led to declining sales and profitability.
Transformation and Restructuring
In response to the changing market landscape, Lexmark underwent significant transformation and restructuring. In 2010, the company announced plans to divest its money-losing inkjet business to focus on more profitable areas, including laser printing and enterprise solutions. This strategic decision marked the beginning of a new chapter for Lexmark.
In 2016, Lexmark was acquired by a consortium of Chinese companies led by Apex Technology Co., Ltd. The acquisition marked the end of Lexmark’s independence, but it provided the company with the necessary resources to reorient its business and revamp its operations.
Current State of Lexmark’s Manufacturing Operations
So, is Lexmark still making printers? Yes, Lexmark continues to manufacture and market a range of printing solutions, including laser and enterprise printers, mobile printers, and industrial print solutions.
Under the ownership of Apex Technology, Lexmark has invested heavily in research and development, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence, IoT, and 3D printing. The company has also strengthened its focus on providing integrated printing solutions, combining hardware, software, and services to create value for its customers.
Lexmark’s manufacturing operations have been consolidated and streamlined to achieve greater efficiency and cost-effectiveness. While some of its manufacturing facilities have been closed, the company continues to maintain a global presence with manufacturing sites in China, Europe, and the Americas.
Shift to Third-Party Manufacturing
In recent years, Lexmark has shifted its focus towards design and engineering, while outsourcing manufacturing to third-party contract manufacturers. This strategic decision has allowed the company to reduce its capital expenditures, minimize risks, and enhance its agility.
Third-party manufacturing partners, such as Taiwan-based Elitegroup Computer Systems (ECS) and Chinese electronics component maker, Wingtech Technology Co., Ltd., are responsible for producing Lexmark-branded printers and printer components. These partnerships enable Lexmark to focus on its core strengths, including printer design, engineering, and software development.
Benefits of Third-Party Manufacturing
The shift to third-party manufacturing has brought numerous benefits for Lexmark. These include:
- Reduced capital expenditures: By outsourcing manufacturing, Lexmark can avoid significant investments in manufacturing infrastructure and equipment.
- Increased flexibility: Third-party manufacturing allows Lexmark to quickly respond to changing market demands and adjust its production capacity accordingly.
- Improved cost competitiveness: Contract manufacturers often enjoy lower labor and material costs, enabling Lexmark to maintain its competitiveness in the market.
What’s Next for Lexmark?
As the printing industry continues to evolve, Lexmark remains committed to innovation and customer satisfaction. While the company may not be the household name it once was, its legacy and expertise in printing technology remain unmatched.
Lexmark’s current strategy focuses on:
Enterprise Print Solutions
Lexmark has strengthened its focus on providing integrated print solutions to large enterprises and organizations. The company’s enterprise print portfolio includes laser printers, multifunction devices, and software solutions designed to streamline workflows and enhance productivity.
IoT and Artificial Intelligence
Lexmark is investing heavily in the development of IoT and AI technologies to enhance its printing solutions. The company’s vision is to create intelligent, connected printers that can communicate with other devices and applications, enabling seamless workflows and automated processes.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness
As concerns about environmental sustainability and eco-friendliness grow, Lexmark has responded by developing more sustainable and energy-efficient printers. The company’s eco-friendly printers and consumables are designed to minimize waste, reduce carbon emissions, and promote responsible printing practices.
| Model | Description | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Lexmark MS823dn | A monochrome laser printer designed for large workgroups and enterprises. | Prints at speeds of up to 50 ppm, includes a 4.3-inch touchscreen display, and supports mobile printing. |
| Lexmark MC2535adw | A color laser multifunction device (MFD) featuring printing, copying, scanning, and fax capabilities. | Prints at speeds of up to 35 ppm, includes a 4.3-inch touchscreen display, and supports mobile printing. |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Lexmark may not be the dominant player it once was, but it remains a significant player in the printing industry. With a rich heritage, a strong focus on innovation, and a strategy that addresses emerging trends and customer needs, Lexmark is poised to continue delivering high-quality printing solutions for years to come.
Is Lexmark still producing printers?
Lexmark is indeed still in the game and producing a variety of printers, including inkjet and laser printers. These printers cater to different needs and are designed for home, office, and industrial use. Over the years, Lexmark has continued to evolve and update its product line to stay competitive in the market.
In addition to producing printers, Lexmark also offers a range of printer-related services and solutions. This includes printer maintenance and repair, printing software, and supplies such as toner and ink cartridges. With a strong focus on innovation and customer satisfaction, Lexmark remains a significant player in the printer market.
Who is the owner of Lexmark?
Lexmark is currently owned by Ninestar Corporation, a Chinese company that specializes in the production of printing and imaging solutions. Ninestar acquired Lexmark in 2016 for approximately $3.6 billion, marking a significant shift in the company’s ownership and strategy. Since the acquisition, Ninestar has continued to invest in Lexmark, expanding its product line and strengthening its global presence.
Under Ninestar’s ownership, Lexmark has been able to tap into the Chinese market and leverage the company’s resources to develop new products and technologies. This has enabled Lexmark to stay competitive in the market and continue to innovate in the printing and imaging space.
Where are Lexmark printers manufactured?
Lexmark printers are manufactured in various locations around the world. Historically, the company had manufacturing facilities in the United States, specifically in Kentucky and Tennessee. However, in recent years, Lexmark has shifted some of its manufacturing operations to countries such as China and the Philippines, where labor costs are lower.
Lexmark’s manufacturing facilities in Asia are primarily owned and operated by Ninestar, the company’s parent organization. These facilities produce a range of Lexmark printers, from entry-level inkjet devices to high-end laser printers. Despite the shift in manufacturing locations, Lexmark continues to maintain a presence in the United States, where it still designs and engineers many of its printers.
Are Lexmark printers compatible with Macs?
Yes, many Lexmark printers are compatible with Macs. Lexmark offers a range of printers that support Mac operating systems, including macOS and OS X. These printers are designed to work seamlessly with Mac devices, allowing users to print documents, photos, and other materials with ease.
To ensure compatibility with Macs, Lexmark provides specific printer drivers and software for Mac operating systems. These drivers can be downloaded from the Lexmark website, allowing users to set up and use their printers with their Mac devices. Additionally, some Lexmark printers also support wireless printing from Mac devices, making it easy to print from anywhere in the home or office.
Do Lexmark printers support mobile printing?
Yes, many Lexmark printers support mobile printing. Lexmark offers a range of printers that are compatible with mobile devices, including smartphones and tablets. These printers allow users to print documents, photos, and other materials directly from their mobile devices, using various mobile printing technologies.
To support mobile printing, Lexmark provides various mobile printing solutions, including the Lexmark Mobile Print app. This app allows users to print documents, photos, and web pages from their mobile devices, using a range of printing protocols such as Wi-Fi and AirPrint. Additionally, some Lexmark printers also support mobile printing using cloud-based services such as Google Cloud Print.
Are Lexmark ink cartridges recyclable?
Yes, Lexmark ink cartridges are recyclable. Lexmark offers a cartridge return program that allows customers to recycle their used ink cartridges, reducing waste and minimizing the environmental impact of printing. This program is available in many countries around the world, including the United States, Canada, and Europe.
To participate in the cartridge return program, customers can simply collect their used Lexmark ink cartridges and return them to a designated Lexmark recycling center. The cartridges are then processed and recycled, with the materials used to make new cartridges or other products. By recycling its ink cartridges, Lexmark is committed to reducing its environmental footprint and promoting sustainable printing practices.
Does Lexmark offer a warranty for its printers?
Yes, Lexmark offers a warranty for its printers. The company provides a standard warranty that covers repairs and replacements for defective printers, as well as technical support and troubleshooting assistance. The length of the warranty varies depending on the printer model and the country of purchase, but most Lexmark printers are covered for at least one year from the date of purchase.
In addition to the standard warranty, Lexmark also offers extended warranty options for its printers. These extended warranties provide additional coverage and support for a longer period, giving customers peace of mind and protecting their investment in their Lexmark printer. To purchase an extended warranty, customers can contact Lexmark directly or visit the company’s website for more information.