Canon veteran Wayne Barlow, who has been involved in the firm's print business for the past five years, has been appointed to the new role.

Canon UK is leading the firm's global plans for a professional print division under the guidance of its European operation.

"There's a lot we can to increase our presence," said Barlow (pictured). "We want to get to the point when why would you want to buy from anyone else."

The firm's print business has been split into two divisions, professional print will focus on all print for pay markets from quick print through to commercial printers, while the other division will focus on office imaging and implants.

Canon marketing operations manager Geoff Hobbin said that the firm had dedicated resources over the next three years to drive its market share in professional print, a market he described as having significant value for the firm.

The firm's product roadmap over the next few years will push it further into high volume production market, which will come under the control of Barlow.

Story by Barney Cox