Ricoh Selects Throughput Analyzer to Drive Continuous Improvement

Activplant’s Throughput Analyzer Application to optimize plant performance

LONDON, ON – September 24, 2007 – Activplant Corporation, the standard in performance management software solutions for the world’s leading manufacturers, announced today that Ricoh UK has signed a license agreement to use Activplant’s Throughput Analyzer software application. Ricoh’s decision to install the Throughput Analyzer application at this location follows previously successful deployments of the Activplant Performance Management System in Ricoh facilities.

Ricoh selected Activplant’s Throughput Analyzer to improve manufacturing productivity through a focus on constraints on their copier toner lines. Expected to identify and prioritize chronic constraints, Throughput Analyzer will empower plant personnel to attack the issues that will result in the largest gains in production throughput – and enable management to make informed decisions that will positively impact their bottom line. Ricoh’s decision to install the Throughput Analyzer in its UK facility is expected to accelerate the plant’s ramp up process on their newest line and enhance continuous improvement efforts by utilizing the software’s ability to identify true recurring constraints.

“The Throughput Analyzer application is all about time. It’s about leveraging plant floor information with the express purpose of putting lost minutes of production back into our customer’s day,” said Chuck Frosst, Activplant President. “The application filters through and focuses their continuous improvement teams on those constraints that are chronic, enabling them to make corrections that result in a dramatic increase in throughput and efficiency.”

“At Ricoh, we’re very excited about the introduction of Throughput Analyzer in our facility,” said Richard Aston, Ricoh Senior Engineer. “The application has the potential to accelerate the lines ramp up process by increasing product throughput and driving operational improvements that will lead to lasting efficiency gains.”

About Ricoh Ricoh designs, develops and manufactures a complete range of print and document management, hardware, software and services which are tailored to meet individual customer needs. Its devices print, copy, scan and fax documents as an integrated part of the IT network and enterprise content management system. Software is used to audit usage, manage document flows, simplify business processes, control print expenditure and secure access. The company takes an innovative approach to research and development, having invented the first digital black & white copier and introducing the colour-capable device.

Ricoh UK’s environmental credentials are second to none. It operates a zero-waste policy at all of its manufacturing plants and maintains carbon-neutral status at its headquarters in Feltham, Middlesex. It operates a dedicated ‘Green Centre’, where old machines are re-commissioned and recycled in line with WEEE Directive guidelines, and has been accredited with ISO14001 for environmental management.

Further information can be found at www.ricoh.co.uk. Alternatively, please contact the Ricoh team at Berkeley PR on 0118 988 2992 or ricoh@berkeleypr.co.uk