Singapore (Asia Pacific), 24 August 2006 -- HP has shipped its 100 Millionth LaserJet printer, which represents a significant industry-first milestone for the IT comglomerate. In conjunction with the announcement, HP also launched a new entry-level Multifunction Printer (MFP) – the HP monochrome LaserJet M1005 MFP – an entry-level model that is targetted at SMB owners who are looking for high-quality LaserJet printing at a lower cost.

The Asia Pacific (excluding Japan) region is one of HP's fastest growing markets for laser printers today, with a 21% CAGR from 1996 to 2005. In the first quarter of 2006, HP out-shipped its competitors with four times more laser printers shipped than its closest rival in the region, according to the IDC Worldwide Quarterly Hardcopy Peripherals Tracker, June 2006.

HP is optimistic about the robust economic growth in the Asia Pacific region and expects this to fuel business demand for its LaserJet printers. “The economy is clearly bullish in the Asia Pacific, and with businesses growing at a rapid pace, we are committed to delivering the best and most effective printer solutions to our customers in the region," said Margaret Ong, Vice President for Commercial Volume Business, Imaging and Printing Group, Hewlett-Packard Asia Pacific.

HP pioneered personal laser printing with the introduction of the first LaserJet printer (the LaserJet Classic) in 1984. They also launched the first mass-market all-in-one laser device - the HP LaserJet 3100 - in April 1998.

As part of the celebrations in Singapore, HP will launch a six-month online campaign from 1 September onwards, to offer SMBs a “printer makeover”. To take part, business owners must go to the campaign website and answer a question on how a HP LaserJet can bring their business up to the next level. The most compelling answer will be selected for a printer prize in October and December 2007 and February 2007. At the end of the campaign in February 2007, one grand prize winner from the shortlisted candidates will be selected to receive a business make-over.

HP will also launch a microsite on 1 September 2006 to provide businesses and users with comprehensive information on LaserJet printers.

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