C Sukumaran
Senior Director- Consumer Systems Products and Imaging Communication Business - Canon India
 

BRAND ROADMAP 2022
Canon understands the needs of small businesses and home offices and is constantly bringing forth innovative products that meet their changing needs. Its flagship PIXMA G-series printers are touted to be cost-efficient and come with reliable ink tank technology making them ideal for home and small businesses in India.

On the camera front, Canon’s mirrorless segment has been performing exceptionally well in the Indian market equipped with the best-in-class technology. It has recently launched the EOS R7 and EOS R10, which are Canon’s first cameras in the EOS R mirrorless system to be equipped with APS-C image sensors.

Over the next two years, regional penetration will be one of Canon’s key areas where it aims to make its products and services available across the country. To date, Canon has expanded its presence in the region by opening more than 295 Canon PIXMA concept stores and more than 1500 OIC signature stores nationwide. It is proactive in building a stronger foundation in the Tier III and IV markets by expanding and strengthening its channel partner ecosystem to seamlessly deliver products and services to Canon customers.

MARKET TRENDS IN THE POST-PANDEMIC WORLD
Canon understands the importance of constantly innovating to keep up with the evolving landscape. Their focus areas and marketing strategies are always in line with the upcoming industry trends.

As small and medium businesses gain momentum, Canon continues to witness demand for home printers that further proliferates the adoption of its connected and cloud-enabled multifunction printers that are cost-effective and offer an all-in-one solution. The pandemic has also boosted new trends in the social media space, and thus there is immense scope in the growth of photo printing. For imaging technology, Canon has also been witnessing positive demand from OTT, Cinema, Preaching and Education segments, for high-end premium imaging products.

Post pandemic, Canon has resumed its retail expansion spree in the country to be available for customers across touchpoints. It has recently unveiled one of its largest PIXMA Zones in Pune this year which offers specialized solutions and addresses varied printing needs. Additionally, to further strengthen its presence in the cinema segment, CAnon recently introduced an industry-first ‘Cinema Excellence Suite’ in Mumbai.

CHANNEL VISION & STRATEGY
Channel partners have always played an important role in Canon’s success stories. As one of its key stakeholders, they have strengthened Canon’s position in the industry and enabled the brand to reach a diverse range of customers.
Canon is committed to helping channel partners build both new competencies and scale up using new technologies. It actively reviews its distribution and retail structure and provides partners with personalized retail reports and customized campaign support to grow its business.  Canon also focuses on the profitability and long-term sustainability of its channel partners in the market.

Canon’s partner ecosystem has a strong foundation and over the years has consistently nurtured a partner program that has grown into a strong network of over 120 distributors and over 3500 channel partners. This year, the imaging brand will focus on further expansion of its partner ecosystem, with a particular focus on micro-distribution and regional reach. The main goal is to increase the availability of Canon products and genuine consumables in the near future with the help of channel partners across India.