Toner for the Xerox 700 has been in short supply worldwide in the past couple of weeks, with many printers unable to use their machines for periods of up to seven days.

Figures of £5,000 in lost earnings have been reported – with all but one of 19 Xerox 700 users contacted affected by the toner problems.

Xerox has not elaborated on the reasons behind the demand problem, but said that it was a short-term issue.

Peter Vincent, head of technical services at the BPIF, told PrintWeek that he had spoken to "people who decide things" at Xerox.

He said: "I have been given direct assurance by Xerox that things will be back to normal by the end of next week (25 December).

"I don't know why they were caught out, but I have made it clear to them they need to make sure their own people are giving the truth and consistent messages."

Many of the affected printers have told PrintWeek they that intend to seek compensation from Xerox. They have reported a number of reasons given by the supplier for the problem.

Industry specialist lawyer Philippa Dempster said that printers should check their contracts with the supplier.

She explained: "Sometimes, companies have it in the contract that something outside of their control enables them to escape responsibilities. The contract may also limit liability.

"It is possible for the court to look at these clauses under the Unfair Contract Terms Act. If you have bought kit and can't use it, they (Xerox) could be considered responsible."

Xerox has declined to comment on the scale of problem, but said that it was "doing its best" to address any customer concerns.

"We want to make sure we help as much as we can and we are working very, very hard. If customers want to contact us with any concerns, we will do our best to answer any questions," a spokesman said.