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A History of Ricoh Printers

imagine. Change

As of 2023, Ricoh Company Ltd. is a Japanese multinational imaging and electronics company with approximately 90,000 employees, operating across several global regions, including North America, Latin America, Europe and Asia. Since its founding in 1936, Ricoh's reputation has been a force to be reckoned with among electronics companies, offering innovative technological solutions globally. At MFD UK, we utilise experience you can trust to discover your printing solutions, specialising in Ricoh and Sharp printers. Below we have delved into the rich history of Ricoh printers, uncovering its strong reputation and years of experience. Read below to discover the journey of Ricoh printers, renowned for their exceptional versatility, functionality and affordability.

The Beginnings: 1936-1969

  • Whilst the first Ricoh copier was not created until 1955, the foundations for this technological breakthrough began in 1936. Ricoh unveiled industry firsts, including the Ricohflex III camera, spurring the popularisation of cameras.
  • In 1955 Ricoh launched the first diazo copier, Ricopy 101. The popularity of this device was unrivalled and revolutionised the efficiency of the contemporary office space.
  • In 1965 Ricoh invented the world's first desktop copier, which in turn increased printing accessibility across a range of sectors. Known as the Ricopy BS-1, this copier facilitated different forms of duplication, including books and textiles. The Ricopy BS-1 catalysed the globalisation of the Ricoh Company, as it was viewed as a breakthrough printing device.

Coining Office Automation: 1970-1984

  • In 1972 Ricoh launched the RICOH PPC900, its first dry-electrostatic-transfer plain-paper copier, accelerating the accessibility and reach of the company; these printers were used in offices, schools and other professional environments.
  • In 1977, Ricoh coined the acronym Office Automation, which referred to the use of technology to improve efficiency, productivity, and communication within an office environment.
  • 1975 marked a tremendous year of innovation for Ricoh, as the RICOPY DT1200 became the world's top-selling copier.
  • Ricoh's fame increased exponentially between 1982-1984 with the release of pioneering devices, including the RICOPY FT4060, RICORE 3000, RICOH LP4120 and RIFAX 1300.

Digitalisation Pioneers: 1985-1999

  • Noteworthy printing milestones for Ricoh between 1985-1999 included the release of the multifunctional digital copier, IMAGIO 320 and the imagio MF200, promoting compact and affordable copier options for buyers.

Global Expansion: 2000-2009

  • The turn of the century saw a shift towards efficiency and sustainability for Ricoh. The company was awarded the Ecology Design Prize from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry for the imagio Toner Type C2, due to its effort to protect the environment and lower energy usage.