Ricoh Technology Selected for on Demand News Stand

Meganews, the world’s first print on demand news stand, selects Ricoh’s printing technology to print and sell magazines and journals in real time. Ricoh supplied the technology, while Sweco created the software, card terminal and screens.

Designed by the consulting firms SWECO and LA+B, the stand needs only two minutes to sense a purchase order and drop down a freshly printed magazine from the hatch. According to the companies, the solution reduces publishers’ costs for distribution and logistics. Plus, by saving transportation, it is more environmentally friendly.

Tommy Segelberg, Director Nordic Operations, Production Printing Business Group, Ricoh Sweden, said, “Purchases are made on screen using a credit card, ensuring convenient and secure transactions.”

Graham Moore, Director of Business Development for Ricoh Europe also gave his comments, “This product is a direct response to the growing need for on demand printing. It is also an example of true innovation and we are proud that Ricoh’s leading technology is contributing to magazine production of the future.”

Ricoh says during the next six months the stand will be tested in airports, hotels, hospitals, grocery stores and other malls across the country.

Meganews, with its company located in Stockholm of Sweden, is a newspaper vending machine with internet access and prints over 200 magazines and journals on demand.