Over a Century of Innovation

Konica Minolta’s journey started 150 years ago, with a vision to see and do things differently. We innovate for the good of society and the world. The same purpose that kept us moving then, keeps us moving now. 150 years is just the start.

Our Impact by the Numbers

Year Founded

Years of Innovation

Countries (Direct)

$0B+

Annual Revenue (Group)

A Story of Transformation and Growth

From its beginnings in 1873 as a pioneer in photographic materials to its evolution into a global technology leader, Konica Minolta has consistently driven innovation across industries. Built on the combined strengths of Konica and Minolta, the company has continually adapted to changing technologies—from imaging and optics to digital transformation—while remaining committed to creating new value for businesses and society.

1873

Konica starts business as Rokusaburo Sugiura begins selling photographic and lithographic materials at Konishiya Rokubeiten in Kojimachi, Tokyo.

1903

Konishi Honten (predecessor of Konica) Markets the “Cherry Hand Camera,” Japan’s first brand-name camera.

1928

The precursor of Minolta, Nichi-Doku Shashinki Shoten (Japan-Germany Photo Company), is established by Kazuo Tajima and begins production of cameras in Japan.

1940

Introduction of Sakura Natural Color Film, the first color film made in Japan.

1960

Minolta Copymaster, the company’s first copier, is released.

1962

A specially modified Minolta camera is carried aboard the spacecraft Friendship 7. In the following decades, Minolta technology is adopted for both Apollo lunar missions and Mir space station missions.

1971

Release of U-Bix480, a high-performance photostatic plain paper copier.

1977

Introduction of the world’s first 35mm compact autofocus camera, model C35AF.

1983

Releases EP450Z, the world’s first copier with zoom magnification-reduction function.

1984

Develops an ultra-high-precision aspheric plastic lens for CD players.

1985

Releases the model 7000 SLR camera with autofocus function.

1990

Releases model CF70, a digital full-color copier featuring breakthrough LIMOS technology for superior image quality.

2003

Konica and Minolta are merged to leverage the leadership technologies and innovations of both companies.

2004

Introduction of the first bizhub multifunctional peripheral (MFP), bringing fast document printing, copying and scanning to the hub of any business.

2014

Konica Minolta announces collaboration with MGI Digital Graphics Technology to bring new 3D tactile varnish technology to market.

2015

Konica Minolta Inc. Launches Step Forward, an initiative to inspire women in professional excellence at all career levels.

2016

The bizhub PRESS C71cf digital press is the first of many new products that supports Konica Minolta’s strategy in the label and packaging industry market.

2017

Konica Minolta unveils the KM-1 , the 29.5 inch sheet fed UV Ink Jet Press.

2019

Konica Minolta becomes a Google Cloud Premier Partner, enabling the company and its dealer partners to offer the full suite of Google Cloud solutions.