By Andy Slawetsky – In 2016, Lexmark was acquired by a consortium led by Apex Technology and PAG Asia Capital. Apex Technology, a printer and imaging supplies manufacturer, later changed its name to Ninestar Corporation in 2017 as part of its strategic shift. This name change reflected the company’s growing involvement in the global printer industry chain, including OEM and compatible consumables, as well as print management (Action Intell) (NineStar Group).
In recent developments, Bloomberg reported that Lexmark may be up for sale again. This follows a period of challenges for Lexmark, as the U.S. government, citing forced labor concerns, banned imports from Ninestar in 2023. The import restrictions affected Ninestar and its subsidiaries, making it difficult for Lexmark to replace banned products in the U.S. market (MarketScreener) (Action Intell).
At Industry Analysts, Inc., we believe that a sale of Lexmark could be a positive move, especially as it distances the company from Ninestar’s issues. This could help Lexmark regain traction in the U.S. and beyond, aligning with a new owner that supports its long-term goals.
For office equipment resellers, this may bring stability and a renewed focus on Lexmark’s core strengths. Despite its Chinese ownership, Lexmark remains an American company, with its headquarters firmly rooted in Lexington, KY. A new ownership structure could better position the company for growth, making it more competitive and aligned with resellers’ needs in the rapidly evolving print market.
This potential sale offers a critical moment for Lexmark to overcome the recent setbacks caused by its parent company’s challenges in the U.S. market.
Lexmark provided us with these comments regarding the potential sale of the company:
“Lexmark is an operationally and financially independent U.S.-based company headquartered in Lexington, Ky. Our investors have not announced any actions or decisions, and we cannot comment on speculation. Lexmark’s focus is, and will remain to be, providing exceptional products and services to our customers and partners. As always, any significant developments that may impact or benefit our customers, partners or business will be communicated through official channels.”
More on this story if and when it becomes available.
SOURCE Industry Analysts Inc.
