RISO celebrates 20 years in inkjet

RISO UK has emphasised its desire for continued growth after the global RISO brand reached a major milestone.

Japanese manufacturer RISO provides printing solutions in over 190 countries and regions. Founded in 1946 by 22-year-old Noboru Hayama, RISO was first developed as an ink manufacturer for mimeograph printing. However, the launch of its flagship Risograph digital duplicator in the 1980s amplified its status as a global print solutions provider.

This year marks a significant milestone for RISO Kagaku, marking 20 years since its international entry into inkjet printing.

RISO debuted its first high-speed inkjet printer in 2003, the HC5500, which was primarily designed for business use in the Japanese market. Distribution of the press expanded overseas in 2005. The model ran at 120ppm and was reportedly designed to familiarise businesses with colour printing.

RISO’s cold inkjet technology evolved in the years following with its arsenal of print solutions expanding to cover a diverse range of industries.

A range of RISO’s solutions was demonstrated at this year’s Hunkeler Innovationdays alongside a range of leading print manufacturers.

RISO’s fastest cut-sheet inkjet system, the double-engine VALEZUS T2200, was on display at the exhibition. The press boasts reported print speeds of up to 330ppm in full colour, with a ‘no-heat technology’ designed to maximise uptime and lower parts and labour service costs.

The T2200’s cold inkjet printing technology does not require sheets to be treated before or heated and dried after print, resulting in static free output that reduces the risk of paper curl and can thereby increases maximum uptime.

Also featured at the RISO stand was the VALEZUS T1200, a single print engine version of the T2200 with a print speed of 165ppm in full colour. The press was paired at the show with a Plockmatic booklet finisher accessory, demonstrating a new booklet-making solution that includes stapling, folding, and spine forming.

Speaking of the 20-year milestone on LinkedIn, RISO UK said: “Our entry into the inkjet market was a milestone, establishing us as a global leader in inkjet innovation.

“Since then, RISO has continued to evolve, pushing the boundaries of printing technology to meet the ever-changing demands of the industry.”

The UK arm of RISO offers free print reviews to schools in the UK, assessing printing setup and identifying cost-saving solutions at no charge.

Those interested in finding out more about RISO’s portfolio of solutions have been encouraged to contact RISO UK, visit the company’s website, and follow its LinkedIn page where regular updates are posted.