Sharp
Sharp is a leading provider of reliable multifunction printers (MFPs)and copiers that are designed to make device setup easier and faster.
Sharp Corporation, founded in 1912 in Osaka, Japan, is a multinational technology company known for its spirit of innovation and high-quality products. While Sharp first gained international recognition in consumer electronics, including televisions, calculators, and home appliances, the company has also built a strong legacy in the field of business technology—particularly photocopiers, printers, and multifunction document systems.
Sharp’s Entry into the Copier Market
Sharp entered the copier business in the early 1970s, marking an important diversification from its consumer electronics roots. In 1972, Sharp introduced its first plain-paper copier, which helped establish the brand in the rapidly growing office equipment market. Unlike early coated-paper copiers, Sharp’s machines provided reliable plain-paper reproduction, aligning with the industry shift toward cleaner, more efficient office technology.
Throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, Sharp focused on making copiers more compact, affordable, and accessible. By doing so, it opened the door for small and mid-sized businesses to benefit from the same document reproduction technologies once reserved for large corporations. Sharp’s competitive pricing, durability, and commitment to ease-of-use made its copiers a popular choice in offices worldwide.
Evolution into Multifunction Systems
In the 1990s and 2000s, Sharp transformed its product lineup to meet the evolving needs of digital workplaces. The company developed multifunction printers (MFPs) that combined copying, printing, scanning, and faxing into a single device. Its flagship Sharp MX Series became synonymous with versatility, advanced document security, and user-friendly design. Sharp also gained recognition for pioneering touchscreen interfaces on copiers, bringing the same intuitive usability found in its consumer electronics to business technology.
Today, Sharp’s copiers and multifunction systems are fully integrated into modern office environments, offering cloud connectivity, mobile printing, workflow automation, and advanced data protection. With models designed for both small offices and enterprise-scale operations, Sharp continues to be a trusted partner in document management and business productivity.
Commitment to Business Solutions
Beyond innovation, Sharp emphasizes environmental responsibility. The company has implemented energy-saving technologies, toner recycling programs, and eco-friendly product designs to reduce the carbon footprint of its copiers and printers. This commitment aligns with Sharp’s broader philosophy of contributing to society through technology that improves everyday life.
From its early plain-paper copiers in the 1970s to today’s advanced multifunction document systems, Sharp has played a pivotal role in shaping how businesses handle information. Its dedication to usability, reliability, and innovation has made Sharp a respected global brand in both consumer electronics and office technology.
By combining a century of inventive spirit with ongoing advancements in document solutions, Sharp continues to empower organizations to work smarter, streamline workflows, and adapt to the ever-changing demands of the digital workplace.