Recent technologies like inkjet, dry film processing and thermal dye sub-printing make photo kiosk installation possible in places where conventional processing is not feasible. And because of these technologies that allow for self service printing of photographs, digital printing kiosks are making their way into all sorts of venues to fulfill this demand for convenient prints. After all, these kiosks offer in-store cross-merchandising possibilities.

According to a 2002 report issued by InfoTrends Research Group, a digital imaging research firm, kiosk sector will continue its growth through 2006, but poor economy is slowing that growth. In its report "Photo Kiosk and Retail Digital Photofinishing Forecast," it was stated that number of installed photo kiosks in North America increased from about 26,000 in 2000 to 28,000 in 2001. Moreover, steady growth will continue, with 2006 estimates set at 33,000 units, but that is a far cry from 2001’s prediction of 150,000 units by 2006.

The report also explains that self-service digital printing kiosks are taking on a constantly increasing share of photo kiosk market. Nearly half photo kiosks shipped during 2002 were expected to be digital exclusive, as compared to 16 percent in 2001. More so, faster print speeds, placement of kiosks in more convenient locations, and connectivity to worldwide web are all expected to attract more customers to services of photo kiosks.

In general, we can say that current marketplace is adjusting from print-to-print kiosks, which could handle single images at a time, to kiosks which are more focused on printing from digital images, in multiples. Surely, leading digital printing companies are looking into this idea to become feasible soon.

Security

Like all entrepreneurs, these online vendors are pouring loads of money to develop a more secure and stable media for payment and delivery. After all their very survival depends on confidence they develop from their would be customers. More secure browsers are being developed to allay fears of hacking incidences.

Conclusion

The traditional mode of purchase still is safest and most preferred way but online entrepreneurs are betting that online shopping will be a popular mode of shopping as security concerns are addressed and buyers become more comfortable and confident in safety of their virtual purchases.