Interview
colour output remains valuable, decentralised printing continues to rise, and SMBs still require reliable, secure print endpoints even as overall volumes fluctuate. Riley’s role centres on the ‘why’ behind new products – the
strategic rationale that shapes development. “We understand SMBs still print,” Riley explains, “so some of
the focus around this range has been to increase the importance of colour output where it adds value as well as the core principles of reducing admin, and offering stronger security and more flexible ownership models.” Te devices are designed with managed print in mind, reflecting
the company’s belief that MPS is becoming the default offer for many partners. Brother sees MPS not only as a way to simplify ownership for end-users but also as a route for resellers to deepen customer loyalty and build contractual revenue.
Managed print: flexible and partner-centric Brother’s channel model remains firmly partner-led, with the company supporting resellers through a tiered set of programmes that range from subscription-based offerings to full contractual MPS packages. “We’re channel-centric,” FitzGerald said. “We support the partner
depending on the type of contracts and the requirement their end- user has. We’ve got flexible programmes… and this product range will feature heavily within our MPS proposition.” Te new devices are smaller – up to 33% smaller than the previous
generation – making them easier to place in hybrid offices, retail environments and compact workspaces. Brother also emphasises ease of servicing: the fuser is now a user-replaceable part, and the modular design is intended to reduce engineer time and simplify maintenance. Riley notes that the MPS offer is designed to “simplify ownership
and reduce risk” for partners, and that the company is seeing strong growth in contractual print. Te new range is positioned as a mid-market workhorse for SME-focused resellers, with the flexibility to support both transactional and contractual sales.
Third-party integration and remote management Brother’s devices support integration with leading third-party print management platforms, including PaperCut and Tungsten Automation (formerly Kofax). Tis is delivered through Brother’s solution interface, which Riley says is a “growing area” for the company. Remote monitoring is handled through BR-Admin, Brother’s
core fleet-management tool, which can be deployed in the cloud. Riley hints at further development in remote management, suggesting that Brother sees this as an increasingly important part of the MPS ecosystem.
Circularity and replaceability Sustainability is a major theme for Brother, and the new range builds on the company’s long-standing circular economy initiatives. “We have improvements to packaging and user-replaceable parts as a real focus,” Riley says. “Te use of recyclable plastics is also important.” Toner longevity also plays a role: higher yield, longer-lasting consumables reduce waste and support sustainability messaging,
www.pcr-online.biz
“Brother’s refreshed SMB colour-laser line-up is a deliberate tightening of focus.”
though Riley emphasises that productivity and sustainability are intertwined rather than separate considerations.
Security: a secure-by-design approach Security is one of the strongest pillars of the new range. Brother has increased processing power, enhanced network protections and expanded secure print features such as print release. “We’re fully aware of the risk in terms of security,” Riley said. “It’s a
secure-by-design approach – device, network and printed material.” Tis aligns with broader market concerns: as print endpoints
remain part of corporate networks, they must meet the same security expectations as other devices.
Strategy: service-led, security-focused, MPS-ready Brother is cautious about discussing long-term strategy, but both FitzGerald and Riley outline a clear short-to-medium-term direction: grow market share, strengthen transactional and contractual sales, and support partners with service-led propositions. “Where the market’s heading is more service-led,” Riley says.
“Security, simplified ownership, and MPS readiness.” FitzGerald adds that Brother aims to continue increasing
share in both transactional and MPS channels, helping partners “contractualise their business” and build loyalty with end-users.
The future of print Asked whether print will always be around, Riley acknowledges the pressures on the market but says Brother is prepared for whatever evolution comes next. “Tere are pressures on print, but we’re ready for that.” Te new SMB colour-laser range is built with a ten-year horizon
in mind, with efficiency improvements, security enhancements and modularity intended to keep the devices relevant as customer needs change. Brother’s refreshed SMB colour-laser line-up is a deliberate
tightening of focus. Smaller devices, stronger security, clearer ownership models and deeper MPS integration reflect where the market is heading – and where Brother intends to lead. For channel partners, the message is straightforward: more value, more support, and a product range designed to fit the realities of modern SMB printing.
July/Augst 2026 | 17
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52
