Seiko Epson Corporation has marked the 50th anniversary of the Epson brand, celebrating half a century of innovation, global expansion, and technological leadership across a wide spectrum of industries.
Founded in 1975, the Epson brand originated with the EP-101, the world’s first compact digital printer. The name “Epson” — meaning “son of EP” — reflected a vision of generational innovation. Since then, Epson has expanded its reach from printing to visual communication, factory automation, wearables, and semiconductors.
Pioneers in Printing
Epson’s evolution in printing has redefined industry standards. Milestones include the MP-80 printer and the adoption of ESC/P language, the introduction of Micro Piezo technology, and the global dominance of ink tank printers launched in 2010. With over 100 million ink tank printers sold in more than 170 countries, Epson is the world’s top brand in this segment.
Its PrecisionCore printhead technology, now powering both Epson and third-party industrial printers, supports sustainable, small-lot production and short-run packaging — essential for textile, commercial, and professional printing.
Leaders in Projection
Epson has also established itself as a global leader in visual display technology. From its first LCD projector in 1989 to the EB-L25000U — the world’s brightest 3LCD laser projector — Epson’s innovations have enhanced business meetings, classrooms, and cultural exhibitions like Japan’s famed Matsumoto Castle projection mapping.
Industrial Automation and Wearables
Epson’s SCARA industrial robots, launched in 1983, have shaped flexible manufacturing across industries. Holding the top global share in the SCARA robot market, Epson’s intelligent machines now support sectors as diverse as automotive, electronics, and life sciences.
In horology, Epson made history with the world’s first quartz watch in 1969. Its acquisition of Orient Watch Company and expertise in quartz crystal technology underpin essential components used in modern devices from drones to smartphones.
Innovation in the Middle East
In a move to enhance regional impact, Epson inaugurated a new Innovation Centre in Dubai in February 2025. The facility will showcase Epson’s latest technologies and foster collaboration between local industries and R&D teams in Japan, strengthening its innovation pipeline in the Middle East and Africa.
As it looks ahead to becoming carbon negative by 2050, Epson reaffirms its commitment to sustainability and compact, precise, and efficient solutions — shaping a better future for the next generation.
