The business dates back to 1873 when Rokusaburo Sugiura started selling photographic and lithographic materials after being impressed by the potential for photography after having his picture taken at a photography studio, aged 25.
His entrepreneurial move sparked the beginnings of Konica Corporation.
In his new year message, Taiko said the 150th anniversary would mark a new start for the group, and highlighted its prowess in imaging and diagnosis as key opportunities.
He spoke about the challenges experienced last year, including supply chain issues with the lockdown in China and the impact of the war in Ukraine on resource and energy prices.
“Under these harsh conditions, my greatest mission is to forcefully pull the whole group forward so that Konica Minolta can once again soar as a growth company. The most important tasks for me are to restore the confidence of employees and to work to regain the trust of all stakeholders, including shareholders, investors and customers. To achieve these tasks, I will keep addressing with sincerity each and every one of the challenges we face.
“In 2023, in addition to soaring energy prices and rising interest rates, we must be prepared for challenging external conditions, including the risk of customers' restraints in capital investment, depending on the business domain.”
He said that the importance of sustainability would be a central focus.
Referencing the firm’s landmark anniversary, he thanked stakeholders and said: “There is no better time than now, for me, to extend my heartfelt appreciation to everybody who supports us across the world.”
“We position this milestone year as a new start to further leverage the power of imaging in driving sustainable growth for people and society.”
Separately, for the second year running Konica Minolta Business Solutions (UK) has worked with Crisis at Christmas to help homeless people.
The firm’s collaboration with charity tech specialist the Aimar Foundation involved the installation of KM multifunction print devices and PaperCut print management software at hotels and day centre sites across London. KM said this helped to provide “those in need with access to vital information and documentation, to help them take the first step out of homelessness”.
