DELL Dell Inc. (MM)

Hewlett-Packard Company (HPQ) recently launched a set of new technology solutions targeted at retailers. The solutions promise an enhanced shopping experience and are aimed at customer satisfaction and retention.

HP added rp5800 Retail System and Self-Service Kiosks to its existing retail solutions. The rp5800 Retail System is a point-of-sale (POS) solution, which expedites cash processing time and makes retail transactions easier. The solution facilitates users with a choice of operating systems, Intel Inc.’s (INTC) processors, mass storage, removable media and memory.

HP’s brand new Self-Service Kiosks provide virtual and interactive sales assistance through a high-definition touchscreen. The Self-Service Kiosks use Microsoft Corp.’s (MSFT) Windows 7 Professional operating system and integrated Virtual Sales Assistant software.

Retailers can position the kiosks in any customer-facing environment to run in-store promotions, provide directions or share news and product information.

Increased competition and rising customer expectations continue to drive retailers toward more customer-centric models. POS solutions are very popular among retailers and restaurant owners. These solutions help retailers achieve maximum customer interaction, leading to increased productivity. The advanced POS solutions also allow retailers to collect customer information and build meaningful customer relationships.

Though there are opportunities in the retail POS market, we see HP facing stiff competition from NCR Corp. (NCR), Dell Inc. (DELL) and International Business Machines Inc. (IBM).

Apart from this, we are encouraged by HP’s leading position in both PC and Server segments. Continuous deal signings from government verticals are also encouraging. However, intense competition from other big technology companies, such as Cisco Systems Inc. (CSCO), Apple Inc. (AAPL) and Microsoft Corp., as well as smaller Asian players is worth keeping in mind.

Currently, HP has a Zacks #3 Rank, which translates into a short-term Hold recommendation.

 
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