Fierce internal competition between different laser media has strengthened the laser industry, making it more competitive against non-laser technologies. However, laser system manufacturers are compelled to diversify their technology and product base to prevent declining market shares and ensure consistent revenue growth. With the market preference shifting toward the higher efficiency laser sources, companies that manufacture laser systems using more than one laser medium are likely to witness stronger, long-term growth.

This Frost & Sullivan research on the world laser systems markets provides comprehensive analyses of different kinds of laser systems including carbon dioxide (CO2), solid-state, diode, and others. The report also presents analyses based on end users, applications, and geographic regions for these different laser systems and their sub segments. In addition, readers can benefit from a snapshot of the latest geographic and market trends.

Broad Focus on Applications and Products to Counter Slowdown in End-User Industries

Certain end-user industries such as semiconductor and machine tools are likely to follow a cyclic growth pattern, often resulting in fluctuating demand for laser systems. Therefore, it is necessary for manufacturers to have a wide product portfolio that will bolster revenues from other industry applications during these particular, industry-specific cyclical downturns. The analyst says, "When selective industries tend to slip into negative growth, it pays to have a wide focus on applications and products. Along with this, the knowledge about present competitive landscape will be critical for future growth".

The growing demand for innovative laser systems with higher price-performance ratio is forcing manufacturers to increase their focus on research and deveopment. The analyst adds, "There is an increasing need to outsource non-critical activities, and concentrate on key product technologies that will enable manufacturers to conserve funds for the development of advanced, cost-effective products". Manufacturers need to promote user groups and industry associations to increase end-user awareness and thereby, market acceptance.

Market Reconsolidation - The Way Ahead

Companies, with a finger on the market pulse, try to recoup revenues from new geographic regions and applications, as market conditions deteriorated due to a slow economy. Strategic alliances and acquisitions have enabled manufacturers to plug gaps in the product value chain. With the sluggish economy curtailing prolific growth, the reconsolidation process is likely to continue with a strong focus on the development of next-generation laser systems. Pre-sales and post-sales experience coupled with increased reliability will be key features of product differentiation in the coming years.

Industry participants are geared for the upcoming market growth as the economy recovers. This growth will be fuelled by the demand for micro and macro material-processing laser applications that are widely utilized by the medical, automotive, fabrication and semiconductor industries. Manufacturers should keep track of the dynamic market conditions and understand the geographic polarizations that have emerged in terms of specializations, technologies, and customer base to leverage emerging opportunities.