More than 50% of printers are investing in new equipment in order to increase efficiency, according to the PrintWeek Investment Survey 2001.


The Survey, carried out in association with HSBC Equipment Finance, also shows that while printers are upbeat about prospects, more than 70% said that improving margins and profitability was the area of their business they most wanted to improve, with cost structure and overheads (47%) the next priority.


"The market is as competitive as ever, but there are signs that 2001 could be a good year," commented Martin McEachran, national head of sales at HSBC Equipment Finance.


"It did surprise me that so many printers are still paying cash outright for their presses. Cash is tight, and cash management will be increasingly important in the future."


* See the Investment Survey supplement with the 6 April issue for full details.