01732 759725 34 RJH: There’s been a significant shift towards cloud-based and SaaS solutions, as customers look for scalable, flexible alternatives to on-premise systems. This trend has opened new opportunities for partners who can support customers on their transformation journeys. One area of rapid growth for Ricoh has been Smart Lockers. More organisations are looking to embed automated solutions into their workflows to improve efficiency and reduce manual processes. We’ve seen huge interest in Smart Lockers across multiple sectors, proving that automation isn’t just for large enterprises - it’s becoming a critical tool for businesses of all sizes. PITR: How are you supporting partners to capture new opportunities? RJH: Business transformation, automation and sustainability are not short-term trends. These are long-term priorities that will continue to shape the market in 2025 and beyond. What’s notable is how these trends are now being embraced more widely in the SMB market, not just among large corporates. We are placing real emphasis on supporting partners in capturing these opportunities with a portfolio that combines innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. Whether it’s expanding automation services, leveraging DocuWare, or offering carbon-balanced print solutions, we’re focused on helping our partners grow their businesses and stay ahead of customer demands. www.ricoh.co.uk and P C375 -deliver a perfect balance of performance, design, and sustainability – 30% smaller footprint, ideal for modern workspaces; 50% recycled plastic in construction; and a 31% reduction in packaging plastics. PITR: What do you think have been the biggest challenges in 2024, and how have they been overcome? RJH: The biggest challenge has been the pace at which customers are reviewing strategies and budgets. Businesses are scrutinising every investment, particularly around print and automation, and this has made proactive engagement even more critical. At Ricoh, we’ve empowered our channel partners with the tools and expertise to stay involved in these conversations early and offer solutions that deliver real value - both now and into 2025. Whether it’s helping partners align with ESG priorities or deliver workflow efficiencies, we’re focused on equipping them to win and retain business in a competitive landscape. PITR: What technological advances have had a major impact over the year? PrintIT Reseller (PITR): From your perspective, how has 2024 been for Ricoh and the wider channel? Rowan Jeffreys-Hoar (RJH): 2024 has been a year of recovery and growth. As we close out Q3 and move into Q4, we’re seeing strong performance from our business partners and clear signs of renewed confidence across the market. Businesses are settling into a more forward-looking mind-set after years of transformation and rationalisation, which bodes well for 2025. From a Ricoh perspective, we’re especially proud to have been recognised as A3 MFP Vendor of the Year at the PrintIT Awards 2024. This win reflects the strength of our portfolio and the success we’ve achieved together with our partners. PITR: What have been the key trends this year from customers? RJH: One standout trend has been the continued focus on business transformation. Partners are expanding their services to capture new opportunities, and solutions like DocuWare have been a real growth driver in 2024. DocuWare’s high retention rates have made it a key tool for partners looking to build predictable revenue streams. Another significant trend has been the rising importance of ESG requirements. Customers are now factoring energy efficiency and sustainability into their decision-making processes. This has played to Ricoh’s strengths - our devices are designed with class-leading energy efficiency, backed by detailed energy reports that demonstrate tangible cost and carbon savings. For example, our newly launched A4 colour models – the IM C320F, C320FW, Q&A Q&A with Rowan Jeffreys-Hoar PrintIT Reseller talks to Rowan Jeffreys-Hoar, Director of Partner Sales at Ricoh UK Rowan Jeffreys-Hoar
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