Epson celebrates 20 years as global leader in projectors (1)

Epson’s journey to becoming a global leader in Pro Displays includes several major milestones. In 1989, Epson developed the technology for the world's first compact, full-colour liquid crystal video projector, the VPJ-700. The projector used liquid crystal panels instead of the traditional cathode-ray tube to present a picture, thus showing the world a new application for liquid crystal displays.

In 2005, the company entered the home-theatre market with the EMP-TWD1, its DVD player-projector. In 2006, Epson launched its EMP-6100, a dust-proof projector that keeps particulate matter at bay. The EB-450Wi, launched in 2010, was Epson's first wall-mounted, ultra-short throw lens projector with interactive functionality. 

In the Pro Displays Projection market in EMEA, Epson has grown from virtually no market share to market leader in the space of just eight years. It now commands over a third share (37%) of the market in EMEA [3] - a 1199% rise in volume and 1228% revenue growth in eight years . Epson was also the first to provide the same range of lenses for 5.5k to 20k lumens projectors and less than half the number of lenses required compared with any other competitor. 

Epson’s success has been down to its pioneering 3LCD projection technology. Initially the industry favoured legacy DLP technology which was considered a more reliable projection technology. Despite the industry's scepticism, Epson was confident in the colour vibrancy and high brightness of 3LCD as it offered superior projection qualities. After spending years refining this technology, Epson's 3LCD technology is now the technology of choice for the Pro Displays Projection industry. 

"Our longevity and lasting success in the Pro Displays Projection is down to the fact we listened to our customers and studied the industry and its needs at every step of our journey," says Neil Colquhoun, former Vice President, Pro Displays, Epson Europe. 

"Ten years ago, we had no presence in Pro Displays Projection market in EMEA, but now we are market leaders. This is not accidental. We were fully confident in our 3LCD technologies despite the industry favouring DLP technology. Our persistence and perseverance paid off. And we cannot forget that we wouldn’t be in this position without the support of our customers. And I would like to take this opportunity to thank our customers for believing in us and delivering some amazing projects throughout our region.

“Now with the appointment of Massimo Pizzocri as our new VP Professional Displays, I know our business is in safe hands. We will continue to listen to our customers, adapt quickly to changes, and respond to market needs." 

“The pandemic has impacted many of our key segments in the Pro Display market such as entertainment, hospitality and events,” says Massimo Pizzocri, VP for Professional Displays. “Many of the privileges that have been restricted from us, such as visiting museums, concerts and theatres, are now starting to make a return in many of the countries, as they start easing out of the lockdown. This provides an opportunity for us to bring immersive experiences back to attractions but also support effective communication for those returning to work. Our projectors will help bring back a sense of normality to our customers’ lives.”

Epson is the world’s leading manufacturer of projectors with over a third share of the global projector market[5]. It specialises in manufacturing compact, versatile, high brightness 3LCD laser projection technology for homes, offices, schools, retailers and for large-scale installations in entertainment venues, museums, galleries, outdoor events and visitor attractions.

Epson high lumens laser projectors are used to create immersive and interactive experiential environments at major venues and visitor attractions across the world. Recent examples of Epson’s AV technology in use include the Electric Forest Music Festival in America, the TeamLab Borderless installation in Shanghai and the international Festival of Lights in Europe.

Epson AV technology can be found impacting the productivity of classrooms and other learning environments across the world, enhancing the retail experience, and helping a range of industry sectors with remote assistance capabilities.