Same Template

With all of the cost increase coming this year we noticed a similiar message. In each of the notices of cost increases from the manufacturers these had the same message - Due to Economic, conditions, environment, blah, blah blah....

From Lexmark

In response to challenging global economic conditions, Lexmark will announce a general supplies price increase of approximately five percent. This increase will be effective on January 19, 2009, and will apply to both MSRP and reseller prices.

From Epson

Due to the current global economic environment, we are facing increased manufacturing and delivery costs. Consequently, Epson America, Inc. is announcing price increases on select legacy ink and media products, effective February 1, 2009. The price changes will affect our Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), as well as the Reseller price. We will accept purchase orders for these products, at the current prices, until January 31, 2009.

From Hewlett Packard

As of January1st, 2009, HP is increasing the list prices on Inkjet cartridges, print heads, photo value packs and LaserJet supplies by approximately 5% on average. Actual price increases will vary by SKU. As part of HP’s normal portfolio management process, the company regularly reviews pricing for all its products and makes adjustments accordingly. The price increases are in response to challenging global economic conditions including currency volatility HP Inkjet cartridges, print heads, photo value packs and LaserJet supplies will continue to provide superior value, reliability and high-quality output. From pioneering the desktop printing industry to its new smart print supplies system.

From IBM

In response to challenging global economic conditions, there will be a price increase on the following Workgroup supplies.

Looks like all of the manufacturers are having a hard time making their numbers. How about a cost decrease to stimulate growth. Or are they just after the extra margin dollars?