With the dominance of innovative copier devices like the MFP taking over offices globally, it may be hard to remember a time when single function copy devices were the norm. Although the evolution into the MFP was necessary, as it offers unmatched potential and performance, the photocopier was the heart of most print infrastructure. The good news is that these office staple devices are still being utilized in modern print environments! You can rely on a classic photocopier brand, like Xerox, Canon, Kyocera, or HP to continue offering single-function photocopiers that are faster, more efficient, and affordable.
From Carbon Paper to Copy Machines
Although digital document sharing is the dominant mode of modern offices, legacy copier brands continue to influence the process in which modern print environments are built, with security and optimization at the forefront. This is valuable information to offices investing in innovative equipment because it helps illustrate a vivid picture and appreciation for the innovation driving today’s connected print solutions.
To rewind to where it all started, offices used to rely on carbon paper to create duplicates of their documents. Utilizing carbon paper had its faults, as it was often seen as imprecise, messy, and produced limited copies. Luckily, by the 1950s and 60s, Xerox was one of the pioneers of print technology, becoming synonymous with copying itself. Xerox devices redefined office productivity by equipping their devices with the ability to create multiple copiers quickly and reliably.
Understandably, this process was revolutionary, and other copier brands took notice quickly. This resulted in an increase in competition, with the goal of providing the strongest, fastest, and most efficient copier to offices globally. So, major brands like Canon, Konica Minolta, and others emerged with their own solutions. Together, these classic photocopier brands transformed the landscape of copying, from a mechanical tool into an intelligent connected system.
Finding Balance in a Digitally Dominant Office Culture
As decades passed, and technology became increasingly more integrated in office settings globally, the need for even quicker and more efficient devices became a necessity. The multifunction copier (MFP) was a game-changer, as it provided a way for busy enterprises and offices to seamlessly print, scan, copy, and fax their essential documents all from one device. At the time, businesses could not fathom this possibility, due to the dominance and reliability of single-function devices throughout the last few decades.
Although initially hesitant, businesses from diverse backgrounds began to embrace the MFP, which has now made it a foundational element of modern print infrastructure. Still, the dominance of MFPs does not mean legacy copiers went out of style. In fact, many of these devices from classic brands have stood the test of time. That is, popular manufacturers have made strides to ensure their products evolve alongside workplace technology.
It is important to note that at BDS, we see legacy as more than just history. It is a reminder that innovation does not erase the past; it builds upon it. These are fundamental values BDS lives by and are the reason we have been able to experience the level of growth that we have. The print solutions we deliver owe their existence to the breakthroughs made by these early brands.
Innovation Rooted in Tradition
While BDS is dedicated to continuing to deploy the latest print technology, it is important to recognize the connection between tradition and innovation. Although our innovative cloud enabled devices, security driven workflows, and comprehensive print security solutions are popular, we also understand that some businesses still rely on classic copier brands. With over 40 years of experience assisting local New England and Florida offices with their copier solutions, we understand that for some offices, these traditional copiers can do the trick!
Our partnerships with today’s leading manufacturers allow us to provide clients with modern solutions grounded in our proven reliability and 40+ years of expertise. It is a balance between respecting what made these brands great and embracing what will make them indispensable in the years ahead. Furthermore, BDS commits to finding innovative solutions to build modern technology practices by dominating offices today. Whether that is finding ways to offer greater service, security protocols, or flexible pricing, you can count on BDS to keep up and build upon budding trends.
What’s Next for The Photocopier?
Although we might not have the answer to the next innovation regarding the photocopier, we can guarantee that its evolution is far from over. With the increase in AI, workflow digitization, and cybersecurity being critical now more than ever, we can expect rapid changes within the next decade. Rest assured, the spirit of innovation will prevail among the classic photocopier brands we know and love. These brands understand that this reinvention is critical for addressing the modern needs of offices: flexibility, security, and scalability.
BDS proudly stands at the intersection, where history meets innovation. While devices have changed, our goal remains the same; helping businesses elevate their print infrastructure confidently for ultimate success. To stay updated on the latest industry news and trends, follow BDS on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok today!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why did Xerox become synonymous with photocopying?
A: Xerox earned its iconic status because it introduced the first truly practical and commercially successful photocopier in the late 1950s—the Xerox 914. Its speed, reliability, and convenience revolutionized how businesses handled documents, leading to “Xerox” being used as a verb to mean “make a copy.” The brand’s dominance in early office environments cemented that association for decades, making Xerox one of the rare companies whose name defined an entire category of technology.
Q: How are classic photocopier brands adapting to the sustainability demands of modern offices?
A: Today’s legacy copier brands, such as Canon, Ricoh, and Konica Minolta, are leading sustainability efforts within the print industry. They have shifted focus toward energy-efficient machines, recycled toner cartridges, and closed-loop manufacturing processes that reduce environmental impact. Many also design multifunction printers with smart energy-saving modes, biodegradable materials, and cloud-based print management that reduces paper waste. This commitment to eco-conscious innovation ensures that the trusted names of the past remain relevant and responsible partners for the future of business printing.
