Epson to build P4.5-B printer, projector factory in Batangas

Seiko Epson Corp. said it was investing 12.3 billion yen or about P4.5 billion in manufacturing subsidiary Epson Precision (Philippines) Inc. (EPPI) for the construction of a new inkjet printer and 3LCD projector factory in Lipa, Batangas.

The new plant is scheduled to start commercial operations in early 2017.

Epson plans to install a mega solar power generation system with a capacity of about 3,000 kWh on the roof of the new plant. This system will reduce overall daytime electricity consumption at Epson Precision (Philippines) by half.

As it implements its mid-range business plan, Epson realized that its current inkjet printer and projector manufacturing facilities in China, Indonesia and the Philippines were insufficient to meet the expected rise in demand.

For inkjet printers, the company intends to significantly boost production capacity for its core high-capacity ink tank models, which are currently enjoying rapid growth. Its office inkjet production also needs to be increased as the product starts making steady inroads into the market.

Epson also sees the need to increase projector production as it expands its lineup.

“This expansion is proof that Epson is becoming the brand of choice as we strive to consistently exceed our customers’ expectations. Our genuine ink tank system printers, for example, have become tremendously popular in the Philippines as it provides the lowest running cost compared to any printer in the market that uses genuine inks,” said Toshimitsu Tanaka, president and country manager of Epson Philippines.

With growing demand for projectors used in business and education, expanding commercial applications, and increasing penetration in emerging economies, Epson is projecting its growth to surpass that of the market.

Epson plans to increase the workforce of Epson Precision (Philippines) to about 20,000 from the current 12,500 in line with the planned expansion of operations and increase in production.

The construction of this plant will have no material impact on Epson’s business results for the fiscal year ending March 2015.