In the latest End of the Day with Ray, Fujifilm’s Andrew Gunn sat down with Ray Stasieczko for a candid discussion about Fujifilm’s escalating ambitions in production and business print. What began as a standard product reveal unfolded into an in-depth exploration of how this $20 billion global heavyweight intends to stir up the U.S. market.
Straight out of Chicago, Gunn wasted no time.
Dealers gathered around as the machines roared to life, filling the room with the scent of fresh ink and the rhythmic hum of possibility. “We did our big reveal where we launched three new exciting products,” Gunn shared. The lineup? The Revoria Press EC2100, the Revoria Press SC285, and the Jet Press 1160CFG, all engineered to deliver high-end production capabilities at prices that command attention.
“We’re democratizing the ability to do high-end production but at an entry and mid-level price,” Gunn explained. Translation: Fujifilm is weary of watching the middle of the market grow complacent. It’s time to shake things up.
Unpacking the New Lineup
Let's take a closer look at these machines poised to redefine the printing landscape:
Unpacking the New Lineup
Let's take a closer look at these machines poised to redefine the printing landscape:
- Revoria Press EC2100: A high-performance digital production printer, the EC2100 delivers exceptional print quality at impressive speeds. Capable of printing up to 100 pages per minute, it supports a wide range of media types and sizes, making it versatile for various commercial printing applications. The EC2100S variant offers additional specialty toner options, including gold, silver, clear, pink, and textured paper toner, enabling printers to provide enhanced value-added services.
- Revoria Press SC285: Designed for quick printing and in-house production environments, the SC285 boasts a printing speed of 85 pages per minute. It offers advanced media handling capabilities and supports a variety of finishing options, catering to the diverse needs of modern businesses.
- Jet Press 1160CFG: This next-generation inkjet press is tailored for commercial web applications. Featuring a unique paper stabilizer unit, it ensures consistent 1200 dpi quality at speeds up to 160 meters per minute. The Jet Press 1160CFG is adept at handling high coverage prints, expanding the range of printable applications, and minimizing issues like paper curling, particularly prevalent when printing books on coated stocks with high ink coverage.
“The industry needs to be shaken up. The only people that are going to shake it up are the people that have the wherewithal. You all have the wherewithal. So let’s just start shaking some stuff up.”
Addressing Industry Pain Points
Gunn highlighted a critical vulnerability within the industry: “There’s this over-reliance on highly skilled humans and traditional methods and manual processes.” Fujifilm’s strategy is straightforward—eliminate complexity, automate the mundane, and empower dealers to profit without micromanaging every job.
This approach resonates in an industry where efficiency and scalability are paramount. By integrating advanced automation features into their presses, Fujifilm aims to reduce the dependency on specialized operators, thereby lowering operational costs and minimizing human error.
Dealer Sentiments and Market Impact
The buzz among dealers is palpable. Off-camera, one dealer remarked, "If they really hit that A3 market hard, a few incumbents are gonna feel it."
This sentiment underscores the potential disruption Fujifilm's entry could cause in the A3 and A4 segments, traditionally dominated by established players. By offering competitive alternatives with advanced features and attractive pricing, Fujifilm is positioning itself as a formidable contender.
Strategic Partnerships and Market Expansion
Fujifilm isn't venturing into this arena alone. The company has strategically partnered with Marco Technologies, a renowned business solutions provider, marking a significant milestone as Marco becomes the first U.S. channel dealer authorized to sell, market, and service Fujifilm’s full portfolio of office and production solutions.
Clay Ostlund, Chief Revenue Officer at Marco Technologies, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We’re very excited to partner with Fujifilm on this new initiative, as we have seen the success these product lines have had elsewhere in the world and know they are proven technologies.”
This partnership signifies Fujifilm's commitment to establishing a robust presence in the U.S. market by leveraging Marco's extensive network and industry expertise.
Gunn highlighted a critical vulnerability within the industry: “There’s this over-reliance on highly skilled humans and traditional methods and manual processes.” Fujifilm’s strategy is straightforward—eliminate complexity, automate the mundane, and empower dealers to profit without micromanaging every job.
This approach resonates in an industry where efficiency and scalability are paramount. By integrating advanced automation features into their presses, Fujifilm aims to reduce the dependency on specialized operators, thereby lowering operational costs and minimizing human error.
Dealer Sentiments and Market Impact
The buzz among dealers is palpable. Off-camera, one dealer remarked, "If they really hit that A3 market hard, a few incumbents are gonna feel it."
This sentiment underscores the potential disruption Fujifilm's entry could cause in the A3 and A4 segments, traditionally dominated by established players. By offering competitive alternatives with advanced features and attractive pricing, Fujifilm is positioning itself as a formidable contender.
Strategic Partnerships and Market Expansion
Fujifilm isn't venturing into this arena alone. The company has strategically partnered with Marco Technologies, a renowned business solutions provider, marking a significant milestone as Marco becomes the first U.S. channel dealer authorized to sell, market, and service Fujifilm’s full portfolio of office and production solutions.
Clay Ostlund, Chief Revenue Officer at Marco Technologies, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration: “We’re very excited to partner with Fujifilm on this new initiative, as we have seen the success these product lines have had elsewhere in the world and know they are proven technologies.”
This partnership signifies Fujifilm's commitment to establishing a robust presence in the U.S. market by leveraging Marco's extensive network and industry expertise.
“We’re very excited to partner with Fujifilm
Global Ambitions and Competitive Landscape
Fujifilm's aspirations extend beyond the U.S. borders. The company is actively expanding its global footprint, particularly targeting the European market. By introducing the Apeos series of A3 and A4 digital color multifunction printers, Fujifilm aims to replicate its success in the Asia-Pacific region and solidify its position in Europe.
However, entering these markets is not without challenges. Established brands have long-standing relationships, service experience, and customer trust. Fujifilm's strategy hinges on demonstrating technological innovation, environmental sustainability, and robust security features to carve out its niche.
Product Innovation and Environmental Considerations
Fujifilm's product development is deeply rooted in innovation and sustainability. The Apeos series, for instance, utilizes the Super EA-Eco toner, known for its low-temperature fusing performance, contributing to reduced energy consumption and environmental impact.
Moreover, these devices come equipped with advanced security features, addressing growing concerns around data protection in the digital age.
The Road Ahead
As Ray aptly put it, “The industry needs to be shaken up. The only people that are going to shake it up are the people that have the wherewithal. You all have the wherewithal. So let’s just start shaking some stuff up.”
Fujifilm’s message is unequivocal. They are no longer content with playing a background role in the U.S. business print space. With a lineup of innovative products, strategic partnerships, and a clear vision, they are poised to challenge the status quo.
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: the print industry is on the cusp of a transformation, and Fujifilm is ready to lead the charge.
- Celeste Dame 🚀🧠
Fujifilm's aspirations extend beyond the U.S. borders. The company is actively expanding its global footprint, particularly targeting the European market. By introducing the Apeos series of A3 and A4 digital color multifunction printers, Fujifilm aims to replicate its success in the Asia-Pacific region and solidify its position in Europe.
However, entering these markets is not without challenges. Established brands have long-standing relationships, service experience, and customer trust. Fujifilm's strategy hinges on demonstrating technological innovation, environmental sustainability, and robust security features to carve out its niche.
Product Innovation and Environmental Considerations
Fujifilm's product development is deeply rooted in innovation and sustainability. The Apeos series, for instance, utilizes the Super EA-Eco toner, known for its low-temperature fusing performance, contributing to reduced energy consumption and environmental impact.
Moreover, these devices come equipped with advanced security features, addressing growing concerns around data protection in the digital age.
The Road Ahead
As Ray aptly put it, “The industry needs to be shaken up. The only people that are going to shake it up are the people that have the wherewithal. You all have the wherewithal. So let’s just start shaking some stuff up.”
Fujifilm’s message is unequivocal. They are no longer content with playing a background role in the U.S. business print space. With a lineup of innovative products, strategic partnerships, and a clear vision, they are poised to challenge the status quo.
As the dust settles, one thing is clear: the print industry is on the cusp of a transformation, and Fujifilm is ready to lead the charge.
- Celeste Dame 🚀🧠
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