Savin Corporation
| Company type | Public |
|---|---|
| Industry | Office equipment manufacturing |
| Founded | 1959 |
| Founder | Max M. Low, Robert K. Low |
| Defunct | 1995 |
| Fate | Acquired by Ricoh |
Key people | Robert K. Low (finance, management, marketing), E. Paul Charlap (research and development) |
| Products | Liquid-toner photocopiers, powder toner copiers |
| Parent | Ricoh (from 1995) |
Savin Corporation was a U.S.-based manufacturer of office equipment that operated from 1959 until 1995. Established by Max M. Low and Robert K. Low, the company took its name from Robert S. Savin, Max Low's son-in-law. Leadership roles were held by Robert K. Low, who oversaw finance, management, and marketing, alongside E. Paul Charlap, who directed research and development. Savin distinguished itself in the market by producing liquid-toner photocopiers, setting it apart from competitors such as Konica, Xerox, Canon, Sharp, and Kodak, all of which utilized dry-toner technology.
Throughout the 1960s to the 1980s, Savin focused on developing black-and-white liquid-toner copiers grounded in exclusive patents. These devices delivered enhanced fine line resolution compared to powder-based alternatives following early improvements in electrostatic transfer methods. The copiers required consistent upkeep of their fluid reservoirs, referred to as "Tanks," with specific adaptations for naval applications exemplified by models like the Savin 772. In response to advancements in powder toner machines during the late 1980s, Savin launched a darker ink variant known as Landa. Production was carried out by Ricoh, while distribution across the United States and Canada was managed through a network of 50 branches and approximately 500 dealers. Licensing arrangements facilitated sales expansion into Europe and South America via Nashua and into Asian markets through Ricoh.
Although competing against major industry players including Konica, Xerox, IBM, and Kodak, Savin successfully established a presence in the budget-friendly copier segment, particularly targeting educational institutions. The company recorded revenues approaching $500 million alongside $10 million earned from licensing fees and maintained a listing on the New York Stock Exchange. In 1982, ownership transferred to Canadian Development Corporation; however, subsequent reductions in active marketing efforts led to decreased sales figures. By the early 1990s, Savin shifted away from liquid toner models in favor of economical powder toner machines primarily designed for output speeds below 50 copies per minute, where it maintained competitive pricing.
Ricoh acquired Savin Corporation in 1995. Following this acquisition, all products bearing the Savin name became rebranded Ricoh devices utilizing dry toner technology. Design, manufacturing, sales operations, and service functions were consolidated under Ricoh’s global infrastructure.
Currently, Savin no longer exists as an independent brand; Ricoh Company along with its authorized dealers handle all sales, support services, supplies, and maintenance for Savin-labeled equipment. The remaining products available under the Savin name are Ricoh-manufactured units supported through Ricoh’s distribution network.
External links
- Ricoh Corporation (www.ricoh.com)
Ricoh completed its acquisition of Savin Corporation, a U.S.-based office equipment sales firm, in March 1995.