HP considering merging PC and printer units

HP is considering merging its PC and printer units, according to a report in The Wall Street Journal.

The report cites sources close to the plans, and states that Todd Bradley, executive vice president of HP's PC product group, is already lined up to head the combined unit should the merger go ahead.

The two businesses were joined in 2005 during Carly Fiorina's reign as HP chief executive, but were split again when current incumbent Mark Hurd took over later that year.

The units performed well as separate entities over the following years, but the printer arm is now starting to flounder, recording a 20% dip in revenues in the quarter ending July 31 this year. Printing, however, remains HP's most profitable division, accounting for roughly 30 per cent of overall profits.

The report says it is "unclear" what will become of the head of HP's Printing and Imaging Group, Vyomesh "V.J." Joshi, who has been in the role for eight years.