Ricoh: A 25 Year Legacy of Innovation and Excellence

Founded in 1936 by Kiyoshi Ichimura, Ricoh has grown from a modest venture into a global powerhouse in office automation and digital services. Starting with the production of cameras and high-speed fax machines to digital duplicator printers, the company soon embraced a spirit of innovation that propelled it to achieve numerous technological breakthroughs. From pioneering multifunctional copiers to developing cutting-edge IT and software solutions, Ricoh’s journey reflects a relentless pursuit of excellence and a dedication to transforming workplaces around the world. Today, Ricoh is headquartered in Tokyo, with operations spanning the globe and more than 107,000 employees worldwide to ensure that no matter where you are, our automated communication systems provide solutions to drive your business forward.

Ricoh’s Establishment in Thailand 

Ricoh’s expansion into Thailand marked a significant milestone in its international growth. Aligning with its global mission, Ricoh Thailand focuses on empowering businesses by offering innovative solutions tailored to the unique needs of the Thai market. The company's presence in Thailand is not just about delivering advanced products and services but also about fostering a culture of sustainable business practices and contributing to societal development. Ricoh Thailand is committed to enabling organizations to adapt to the digital age, boosting efficiency, and improving workplace experiences. 

Ricoh’s Mission and Vision 

At the heart of Ricoh’s operations lies its core mission: empowering individuals to find fulfillment through work. This philosophy is deeply rooted in the "Ricoh Way," which embodies the "Spirit of Three Loves" coined by the founder: "Love your neighbor," "Love your country," and "Love your work." These principles guide the company’s strategy, encouraging innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to societal well-being. 

Ricoh’s vision extends beyond technological advancements. It seeks to transform the way people work, unleashing their creative potential and ensuring a sustainable future. This involves developing products and solutions that not only enhance efficiency but also contribute to a better quality of life, whether through reducing environmental impact or promoting seamless communication in workplaces. 

Key Milestones Over the Years 

Ricoh's history is a testament to its innovative spirit and unwavering commitment to its customers: 

1930s-1940s: Foundation and Early Growth

• 1936: Founded as Riken Kankoshi Co., Ltd., focused on sensitized paper.
• 1938: Released the first Ricoh camera, the "Ricohflex."

1950s-1960s: Expansion into Office Equipment

• 1950s: Introduced the Ricopy 101, a diazo wet copier for desktop blueprint duplication.
• 1960s: Changed its corporate name to Ricoh Company, Ltd. and expanded product line to include electrostatic copier, high-speed fax machines and digital duplicators.

1970s-1990s: Technological Innovations

• 1970s: Developed and introduced the “RICOM 8”, the first office computer and "RIFAX 600S", first high-speed facsimile machine for offices as well as “RICOPY DT1200”, a wet-type plain-paper machine that becoming the world's top-selling copier.
• 1980s: Introduced the first dry-toner plain-paper copier “RICOPY FT4060” and the first analog color copier "RICOH COLOR 5000". In the late 80s, it also launched the world’s first ISDN G4 digital facsimile machine “RIFAX D7000”.
• 1990s: Introduced the ARTAGE 8000, Ricoh's first digital color copier and launched the Ricoh DC-1, Ricoh's first digital camera. And later in 1996, released its low-priced, space-saving digital copier “imagio MF200” as well as production of CD-RW discs.

2000s: Strategic Acquisitions and Product Evolution

• 2001: Acquired Lanier Worldwide, OA equipment marketing company in the US., expanding its global presence.
• 2004: Acquired Hitachi Printing Solutions, Ltd., creating Ricoh Printing Systems, Ltd.
• 2009: Releases Ricoh’s first reconditioned digital full-color MFPs, the “imagio MP C3500RC/C2500RC series” and produces the world’s first* biomass toner, to be used in the “imagio MP 6001GP” in Japan.

2010s-Present: Innovation and Sustainability

• 2011: Ricoh introduced the world's smallest and lightest ultra-short-throw projector “IPSiO PJ WX4130N/WX4130”
• 2012: Unveils New Global Brand Message: “imagine. change.” and was selected as one of the “2012 Top 100 Global Innovators List” by Thomson Reuters
• 2013: Releases “Ricoh Interactive Whiteboard D5500” and the world's first imaging device that captures fully spherical views “RICOH THETA”.
• 2015: Received “Excellence Award for Business and Biodiversity” from WWF Japan and listed in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices (DJSI) for third year in a row. Along with that Ricoh also launched its first 3D Printer, the RICOH AM S5500P, under the RICOH brand.
• 2017: Ricoh commits to 100% renewable energy reliance by 2050 and has become the first Japanese company to join RE100.
• 2019: Launches the RICOH IM C series of advanced MFPs, which draw on the state-of-art cloud services and AI and RICOH Handy Printer.
• 2020s: Ricoh introduces a new company structure, further transforming its business as it became a digital services company and made a revision to the Ricoh Way Corporate Philosophy redefines Fulfillment through Work as the new Mission and Vision.
• Later in 2023, Ricoh was selected as one of the 2023 Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World and had joined Asia-Pacific Climate Leaders list for two consecutive years.
• In terms of product development, it has launched RICOH Meeting 360 V1, an all-in-one teleconferencing device and RICOH full-color multifunction printers that support DX with the industry's best environmental performance in 2022-2023.

These milestones reflect Ricoh’s adaptability and foresight in addressing evolving market demands and technological trends. 

Ricoh's comprehensive suite of services is designed to empower businesses in the digital era, focusing on four key areas of expertise: Hybrid Workplace, Digital Workflow & Automation, Cloud & IT Infrastructure, and Cybersecurity.

Hybrid Workplace

In today's dynamic work environment, Ricoh enhances digital spaces to support hybrid workforces and new workstyles. By integrating advanced technologies, Ricoh enables seamless collaboration and communication, regardless of location. These solutions encompass advanced video conferencing technologies, interactive displays, and comprehensive workspace management tools such as Interactive Whiteboards which facilitate real-time collaboration among team members, whether they're in the office or remote, ensuring efficient and effective meetings.

Digital Workflow & Automation

Streamlining workflows and automating manual processes are essential for operational efficiency. Ricoh offers solutions that digitize and automate business processes, reducing errors and increasing productivity. These solutions encompass process discovery and mapping, digital forms and workflows, robotic process automation (RPA), and eSignature capabilities, all aimed at facilitating seamless digital transformation for businesses.

Cloud & IT Infrastructure

Modernizing IT infrastructure is crucial for business agility. Ricoh provides solutions that help businesses consolidate their IT resources, automate workloads, and enhance operational efficiency. These services include cloud solutions and services, communication and collaboration tools, data center management, device management, digital architect design, disaster recovery, IT operation management, and Microsoft 365 services. By integrating advanced technologies, Ricoh enables seamless information exchange and efficient collaboration, ensuring secure access to data from various sources and formats, thereby supporting organizations in adapting to new ways of working.

Cybersecurity

Protecting business operations from cyber threats is paramount. Ricoh’s cybersecurity services are designed to protect organizations against evolving cyber threats by providing comprehensive solutions that enhance security posture and ensure compliance.

Services offerings include Modern Workplace Security, Network Security, Assessment Services, Security Compliance Audits, and Managed Security Services, all aimed at building robust cyber resilience for businesses.

By focusing on these four areas, Ricoh ensures that businesses are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the digital landscape, fostering growth and innovation.
Across this four expertise, Ricoh also delivers 12 core values that align with its mission of empowering workplaces. These values emphasize customer-centricity, sustainability, and continuous improvement, ensuring that every product or service adds measurable value to the user’s experience. 

Sustainability and Innovation 

Sustainability is integral to Ricoh’s operations. The company actively incorporates eco-friendly practices in its manufacturing processes, focusing on reducing its carbon footprint and promoting recycling. Initiatives such as Ricoh’s Green Line series exemplify its commitment to environmentally conscious innovation, ensuring that customers can enjoy advanced technology without compromising sustainability. 

In addition, Ricoh invests heavily in research and development, ensuring that its solutions remain cutting-edge. By integrating artificial intelligence, IoT, and other emerging technologies, Ricoh continues to redefine how businesses operate in an increasingly connected world.

A Future-Forward Company 

As Ricoh looks to the future, its focus remains on empowering digital workplaces and promoting a sustainable society. The company’s ongoing commitment to innovation, customer satisfaction, and societal contribution positions it as a leader in transforming workplaces globally. 

In Thailand and beyond, Ricoh continues to set new benchmarks in technology and sustainability, ensuring that it remains a trusted partner for businesses navigating the challenges of the modern world.