Ricoh will reduce its global workforce by 3%—about 2,000 jobs—as it scales back its office machine business, reflecting the declining demand for printers in a digital-first world. The Japanese firm will offer early retirement to 1,000 employees domestically, with the cuts impacting sales and maintenance teams.
Facing a 26% drop in global shipments of copiers since 2018, Ricoh aims to pivot toward assisting companies with digital transitions, including AI-driven data management solutions. The company forecasts a one-time restructuring cost of ¥16 billion (US$112 million) but expects to boost annual profits by ¥9 billion starting in 2026.
While Ricoh’s overall earnings are projected to rise by 9% this fiscal year, its shift toward digital services marks a critical response to a shrinking office equipment market. Meanwhile, competitors like Konica Minolta are following similar paths, underscoring broader industry-wide challenges.
