Epson Marks 50 Years of Operations and Brand Evolution
Epson is marking 50 years since the launch of its brand, tracing a path from the development of the world’s first compact digital printer in 1975 to a diverse portfolio of printing, projection, and automation technologies used globally today.
Rooted in a tradition of craftsmanship that began with watchmaking in 1942, the company’s evolution has been shaped by values of innovation, efficiency, and sustainability.
In Kenya, Epson’s technology is embedded in everyday environments—from classrooms and small businesses to industrial operations. Its energy-efficient inkjet printers and projectors are supporting local efforts aligned with Vision 2030, particularly around digital transformation and environmental sustainability.
The company’s first major breakthrough—the EP-101 digital printer—inspired its name, with “Epson” signifying the “son” of the “Electronic Printer.” Today, that legacy continues in devices like the EcoTank printer series, which has gained traction across Kenyan homes and institutions for its cost-efficiency and reduced waste. EcoTank models have contributed to a global reduction in cartridge usage, helping users cut down on both environmental impact and operational costs.
Epson’s footprint in Kenya also extends to more industrial applications. Technologies such as PrecisionCore are found in high-volume office printers and third-party wide-format presses, enabling sectors like packaging, signage, and textile production to operate more sustainably.
Projection systems, another key part of Epson’s innovation story since 1989, are used in educational and cultural settings across East Africa. The company’s 3LCD projectors power everything from university lectures to mobile cinema setups and events, responding to growing regional demand for high-quality visual communication tools.
Beyond imaging, Epson’s robotics and wearable technologies support automation in fields ranging from electronics assembly to pharmaceuticals. The company also maintains a role in precision timekeeping through its quartz technology and involvement in watchmaking via its acquisition of Orient Watch.
In recent years, Epson has expanded its reach on the continent by establishing a regional hub in Dubai to complement long-standing operations in Nairobi. Local adaptations, such as voltage-tolerant firmware and the Epson Service Centre in Westlands, reflect the company’s effort to tailor its support to market-specific needs.
Looking ahead, Epson remains focused on sustainability goals, including a global commitment to becoming carbon-negative by 2050. As it commemorates five decades of the Epson brand, the company acknowledges the role of its Kenyan partners, dealers, and users in shaping its journey.
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