Ricoh Expands the Aficio™MP 161 Series with Powerful Faxing, Advanced Colour Scanning, Printing and Networking Functionalities

Amstelveen, The Netherlands, December 2006 -- Ricoh Europe B.V. today announced the launch of two complementary models in its Aficio™MP 161 series. The new Aficio™MP 161F and Aficio™MP 161SPF add extended multifunctionality to the currently available basic versions. The new MP 161F combines powerful copying and faxing, whereas the MP 161SPF also incorporates network printing and colour scanning. Providing a scaled solution to businesses ranging from small offices to small workgroups within large enterprises, the series consists of five compact configurations. The previously launched MP 161 provides full featured A4 copying functionality, while the MP 161L also includes low cost printing and TWAIN colour scanning. Additional networking functionality is offered by the MP 161LN configuration. Uniquely, all models feature standard automatic duplexing, as well as quick recovery and versatile paper handling.

With a unique transmission speed of only 2 seconds, the Aficio™MP 161F/MP 161SPF cope easily with heavy fax traffic. For extra efficiency, 150 speed dials and 16 quick dials are available. The MP 161SPF further helps save time and improve image quality by allowing users to send faxes directly from their PC. Faxes can also be forwarded by e-mail to reduce the distribution of printed faxes.

The Aficio™MP 161 series offers maximum flexibility and functionality to meet the user’s current and evolving needs. Kaoruko Abe, Product Specialist at Ricoh Europe’s Marketing Division sheds light on the trends in the A4 black & white MFP market. “In 2005 alone, the market size for Category 1 A4 products has grown by 10%. In this part of the market, Ricoh is market leader with a share of 25% as manufacturer. Since user needs are shifting from single function to multifunctional products, the competition will increase. By introducing the reliable Aficio™MP 161 series we are able to enhance our product line up and effectively offer the end user the product which best fits his requirements.”

Ricoh’s MP 161 series unites high productivity with superb ease of use. With a fast first output speed of less than 7.5 seconds and a continuous output speed of 16 pages per minute, users can perform their office tasks time efficiently. The paper capacity of up to 850 sheets eliminates the need for frequent refills. As the standard duplex function produces double-sided output at high speed, users can save paper and further reduce their costs. The user friendly operation panel makes every job straightforward.

The Aficio™MP 161 series is the latest addition to Ricoh’s advanced range of digital office equipment. Ricoh currently manufactures one of the world’s most extensive line ups of printers, copiers, scanners, faxes and multifunctional devices, as well as advanced software solutions.

More about the Aficio™MP 161F and the Aficio™MP 161SPF.

Note to editors
Ricoh Europe B.V. is the European headquarters of Ricoh Company Ltd., the leading global manufacturer of office equipment, located in Amstelveen, the Netherlands. It is responsible for marketing, sales and service of Ricoh products in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. In Europe, Ricoh has three manufacturing sites: two at Ricoh UK Products Ltd. Telford, UK; GR Advanced Materials Ltd., Stirling, UK; and Ricoh Industrie France S.A., Colmar, France. In addition, Ricoh Europe’s European network comprises 14 sales subsidiaries and affiliates. In the fiscal year ended March 31, 2006, revenues from Ricoh’s European operations totalled over € 3.15 billion, accounting for 22.7% of the company’s global revenues. Ricoh’s worldwide sales increased by 5.6% totalling ¥ 1,915 billion (€ 13.9 billion).

For further information please contact:
Ricoh Europe B.V.
Peter T. Van der Kaag
Tel.: +31 (0)20 54 74 153
Fax: +31 (0)20 54 74 222
E-mail: postmaster@ricoh-europe.com
Home page: www.ricoh-europe.com