RICOH Pro™️ VC80000 · 50% Faster & More Productive · Sander Sondaal · RICOH

In an engaging conversation with Morten Reitoft from INKISH, Sander Sondaal from Ricoh discussed the latest trends and developments in the printing industry, particularly focusing on the shift towards digital and inkjet printing solutions.

Sander Sondaal highlighted Ricoh’s journey since acquiring IBM’s printing division in the early 2000s and its continuous innovation in printing technologies. A key topic was the shift in market dynamics from traditional offset to digital printing, driven by the need for high-quality, high-productivity solutions.

Sander Sondaal also emphasized Ricoh’s focus on continuous-fed inkjet solutions aimed at high-productivity sectors. He touched on the challenges of the analog or offset printing market and how digital printing offers a viable alternative. Ricoh’s strategy includes providing solutions that cover various market needs, from high-end continuous-feed inkjet printers for long runs to toner printers for ultra-short runs.

The conversation also covered the advancements in inkjet technology, making it suitable for a broader range of commercial print applications. Sondaal mentioned the importance of flexibility in printing solutions, catering to different market segments and customer needs. The recent developments in Ricoh’s portfolio, including the Z75 and the new inkjet solutions, demonstrate their commitment to innovation.

Sondaal further delved into the operational aspects of transitioning from traditional printing methods to modern digital solutions, outlining how Ricoh’s technologies are designed to be user-friendly and accessible to a wider range of printing businesses. He concluded by discussing the competitive landscape of the printing industry and Ricoh’s position in it, emphasizing collaboration and innovation as key drivers for future growth.

This interview underscores the dynamic nature of the printing industry and Ricoh’s adaptive strategies to meet evolving market demands, focusing on quality, productivity, and innovation.

RICOH is one of the leading inkjet companies in the graphic arts segment. In this talk with Director Commercial Sales, Sander Sondaal, and Editor Morten B. Reitoft, they talk about the market, toner print, obviously the Z75, and the new continuous fed inkjet printer Pro VC80000. In a market that continues to develop and where inkjet becomes more and more choice for many PSPs, the new Pro VC80000 delivers 150 meters per minute, equal to about 10,000 B2 sheets (4+4) per hour, and on substrates up to 300gsm, and with precession and easy better than previous models. A super nice and intense conversation that hopefully gives you many answers to the newest member of the RICOH family – enjoy!

En John Blyth · Ricoh Europe · PreDrupa LIVE · May 14th 2024 · Replay

John Blyth · Ricoh Europe · PreDrupa LIVE · May 14th 2024 · Replay

Morten Reitoft and John Blyth discuss the upcoming Drupa 2024, reflecting on the excitement and challenges leading up to the event. Blyth mentions that it's been eight years since the last Drupa, and there's a significant amount of anticipation and celebration around the event. He highlights Ricoh's readiness to showcase its innovations and commitment to its client's success through partnership and transformation. Reitoft notes that it's Ricoh's fourth Drupa, emphasizing the company's relatively recent emergence as a major player in the industry. Blyth recalls joining Ricoh 12 years ago when the company was still establishing its presence, and he expresses pride in Ricoh's rapid development and expansion since then. Blyth explains that attending Drupa was an easy decision for Ricoh, as it provides a unique opportunity to showcase their refreshed production printing hardware range, including the Pro Z75 (the world's first B2+ inkjet sheet-fed device with aqueous ink and auto-perfecting) and the new flagship high-speed inkjet Webfed device, the Pro VC80000. Ricoh aims to create a memorable experience with their "House of Hinkaku" theater, featuring a multisensory show highlighting their commitment to transformational innovation. Reitoft asks about the meaning of "Hinkaku," which Blyth explains as "transformational innovation," emphasizing fundamental and far-reaching change. This ethos underpins Ricoh's approach to innovation, which involves collaboration with partners and clients to meet their specific needs. Blyth mentions the importance of aligning their products with market needs through consultation and feedback programs. He recalls the successful launch of the Pro Z75, highlighting the collaborative effort between Ricoh's Japanese R&D team and European staff. Reitoft compliments Ricoh's booth design, noting its contemporary and minimalist style with Japanese influences, including a theater structure reminiscent of a Japanese temple and calming gardens. Blyth confirms the booth's bright accent colors, including pink and purple, and hints at a Japanese flavor in their offerings. The interview concludes with Reitoft thanking Blyth for his time and looking forward to seeing him at Drupa.