HP has pretty picture for small firms

HP has launched its latest range of full colour laser printers, designed to bring quality colour prints within the reach of small and medium sized businesses (SMBs).

The mid-range LaserJet 2600n will sell in the US for $399, bringing colour laser printing to a market segment that would not previously have been able to afford the technology.

The world's largest printer manufacturer hopes that the devices will entice organisations to start creating promotional material in house rather then outsourcing to copy shops.

To further promote the in-house creation of marketing material, HP has signed an agreement with LogoWorks to give SMBs access to logo packages through a website. HP will also provide a free online course on logo design.

"Colour has been growing in popularity because of lower prices and faster print speeds for monochrome and colour, which in turn will open up market opportunities as customers try colour printing for their home or office for the first time," said Gartner analyst Peter Grant.

In addition to the 2600n, HP unveiled its cheapest laser LaserJet 1020 model that will sell in the US at $179. The top model for SMBs is the $799 Colour LaserJet 2800. The appliance combines a printer with a scanner and fax.

HP's printer business has traditionally been among its most profitable units. All printers are immediately available globally.