Comments in response to MPSConnect's opening question about Kevin Togashi assuming the key role as CEO of Ricoh America, and replacing Matt Espe.

Managed Print Services Connect (Jul 5 2010) Finance , Outsourcing , Resellers , Workflow

1. 

   In our recent eNews we ask the following question, "Now that Kevin Togashi has also assumed the key role as CEO of Ricoh America, replacing Matt Espe, one would think that this will result in a stronger unified Ricoh MPS offering. Would you agree?”

    

   Your responces where so interesting we thought we would share them.

   A Sampling of Responses (edited):

   ·         The key, in my opinion, for future company growth will be in providing more than just print service providers with digital solutions. Ricoh needs to look to other markets--the broader Marketing Services Providers market such as letter shops and direct mail companies.

   ·         Ricoh will remain a fierce competitor in the large account space for MPS with a strong price based offering that focuses on transformation to a Ricoh platform to deliver savings.  Having competed against Ricoh Europe on many occasions over the last six years of selling MPS, I’m sure Kevin will organize and deliver a strong offering in North America focused at Ricoh’s direct large account market.

   ·         The big challenge that will remain for Ricoh is building a services capability for global deals (something the IKON acquisition provided only in a small number of territories) and managing that business at a global level for their clients benefit.

   ·         I think I will seat back for the next two months and see what they disclose. Yep. It also means that Ricoh is sending in the home team from Tokyo. That means they are getting ready for a much more serious push. I would keep a close eye on InfoPrint. Ricoh has now taken 100% ownership from IBM. My hunch is that all the pieces are in place.  Keep in mind that when Ricoh went through Ikon they replaced all the Canon boxes very, very quickly. My sense is they take a long time to plan, then execute in lightning speeds.

   ·         Yes, interesting development at Ricoh AMS.  It is my opinion that the change of leadership provides the opportunity for better MPS focus coming from Ricoh.  It will be fun to watch the changes play out with customers and in the AMS market in general.  

   ·         As Togashi has over 37 years of experience with Ricoh, and would know the company offerings in depth, this appears to be a good move for Ricoh America overall.  No real “transitioning” or “learning curve” needed as with bringing in an executive from outside the company.  I believe this will result in a stronger, more unified Ricoh, including their MPS offering. 

   ·         In answer from Ricoh Europe - Ricoh's focus on further developing its Managed Document Services will continue to be a key part of how we add customer value.  Global governance is at the heart of the long-term strategy for Ricoh Managed Document Services…Through these changes, we will deliver a single global approach to business utilizing the same service delivery methodology, tools, processes, and marketing.  

   ·         Yes I believe it could result in a stronger unified Ricoh MDS offering.  We are working to build a stronger Ricoh that can offer managed services, Document services, and Postal Optimization. I believe this will make Ricoh the strongest player in the industry.

   ·         Lots of shake ups in the biz lately, huh? No doubt, Ikon/Ricoh is positioned well to leverage its MPS services offering and with the departure of Espe ( US) I am sure the new Pres ( Japan) will only hasten their aggressive move down this exciting road. The field is wide open with many players vying for the top positions in the enterprise and SMB arenas.

   ·         well, actually, i couldn't care less....

   ·         I really do not know either man.  Change can be a great thing, but look at what it has not done for XXX.

   ·         Yes I agree. Hopefully he will address the overlapping sales forces and strategies between Ricoh/IKON.

   ·         I am not sure at this stage. it will be interesting to see what happens the next 6 months. 

   ·         I only wish Kevin and the Ricoh organization the best of success moving forward. Time is the only measure to your question and the clock has only started to run…

   ·         I hope so Bob, I think I will seat back for the next two months and see what they disclose.

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