Ricoh SA unveils new strategy to boost partner-led growth initiative

By Staff Writer

Dean Richards, CEO of Ricoh South Africa, says the company is placing accredited business partners at the centre of its distribution strategy.

Ricoh South Africa, a provider of integrated digital services and print and imaging solutions, has announced a strategic shift of its business strategy, transitioning to an accredited business partner-only distribution model for office and select production print operations.

This transition is intended to improve operational efficiency and open up new growth prospects by better aligning with its network of accredited business partners.

Ricoh South Africa made the decision in response to evolving market dynamics and the need for a more flexible, scalable, and customer-focused strategy.

Ricoh’s accredited business partners already service its client base across South Africa, and this transition will further empower them to deliver exceptional value and service, the company said. 

“This is a pivotal moment for Ricoh South Africa,” said Dean Richards, CEO of Ricoh South Africa. “By placing our accredited business partners at the centre of our distribution strategy, we are reinforcing our commitment to long-term, sustainable growth - built on trust, loyalty, and shared success.” 

The company said upon completion of the transition, Ricoh will no longer operate a direct sales or technical service force in the office print market, focusing instead on enhancing operational efficiencies and delivering continued high-quality service to clients, though its accredited business partners, which it said will strengthen its market position. 

It went on to say this transformation aligns with Ricoh Group’s global strategy to drive digital innovation and customer value through strong local partnerships.

The company added: “It positions Ricoh to better serve the South African market with a leaner, more focused, and partner-empowered model.”