Ricoh SA has declared the 2012 Africa Print Expo a resounding success, having gleaned 277 qualified leads, signed a deal for a wide format printer, and won best mega stand at the expo, held from 22-24 August.
Although Ricoh SA gained fewer leads from the 5 893 visitors to the show this year, if felt that the the quality of leads this year is better.
Visitors to the show this year were far more informed than previous years, said Dierdre Fernandes, events, PR, CSR and sponsorship co-ordinator at Ricoh SA. They arrived with a firm understanding of what to expect from the show and they were informed about the products they want to help them grow their businesses and adapt to the changing markets.
Fernandes said the majority of attention at Ricohs stand was directed at the colour production equipment, most notably the Pro C901 and Pro C751, followed by the mono production equipment. A mono, wide format deal was signed and is currently being finalised.
The company displayed the ultra short throw projector for the final day at the show, the first time it was displayed in South Africa, and it garnered significant interest from attendees and fellow exhibitors alike.
Significantly, said Fernandes, attendees of the show were keenly aware of the need to transcend hardware specifications as they sought systems rounded with document solutions that support business drivers.
Africa Print is seldom a platform for signing deals but is a valuable exercise in gaining face time with potential and existing customers where we can showcase the full depth of our solutions and gain a more intimate understanding of their requirements and business concerns, said Fernandes.
Ricoh SAs stand was home to a number of technologies, including production printers consisting of the Pro C751, the Pro C901, Pro 1357, the multifunctional MPW2401, and the ultra short throw projector.
The company also used the expo to share its new tagline: imagine. change. which reflects its global shift towards services, demonstrated through its expanding services portfolio for production printing, the office, and elsewhere throughout organisations. It also highlights Ricohs focus on helping clients develop their businesses.
Ricoh SAs stand won the best Mega Stand award, for stands larger than 100sqm. Criteria included stand design, staff friendliness, and professionalism.
