When Epson launched its first EcoTank printer in Indonesia in 2010, it wasn’t just introducing a
new product, it was responding to a growing challenge in the printing industry. In many
emerging markets, users were modifying printers with external ink tanks to keep up with high-
volume printing needs. These unofficial workarounds saved money, but often led to poor
performance and printer damage, which affected the brand’s outlook and eventually led to
customer dissatisfaction.
Instead of resisting this trend, Epson took a bold step by integrating the ink tank system directly
into the printer. This move didn’t just address the immediate problem, it also challenged the
industry’s long-standing cartridge-based business model and set a new benchmark for what
consumers could expect from their printers.
Today, Epson stands out as the global market leader in high-capacity ink tank printing, with over
100 million EcoTank units sold across 170 countries and regions. This milestone reflects not
only the global demand for reliable, cost-effective printing, but also Epson’s commitment to
continuous innovation since EcoTank’s debut.
EcoTank’s appeal is clear. For families and students, it offers worry-free printing with lower
running costs. For businesses and marketers, it means improved productivity, reduced
downtime, and a smaller environmental footprint without compromising quality. For every
segment, EcoTank redefines printing not just as a service, but as a sustainable investment.
Reaching today’s scale called for more than engineering breakthroughs, it requires a
fundamental rethink of how printers should serve people. Epson put reliability, durability and
sustainability at the core of EcoTank’s design, then paired the hardware with clear, practical
guidance that empowered users to print confidently while minimising downtime. By reimagining
every step of the customer experience, EcoTank established a new benchmark for what modern
printing can be.
Central to EcoTank’s reliability is Epson’s proprietary Heat-Free technology, which eliminates
heat from the printing process to reduce energy consumption, increase durability, and lower
maintenance needs. Years of research have also led to advancements in pigment inks and
printhead longevity, ensuring consistent, high-quality results.
In conjunction with Epson’s 50th anniversary, this milestone serves not just as a celebration of
past achievements; it’s also a glimpse into what the future looks like. The company continues to
invest in sustainable business practices by developing circular manufacturing practices to
further reduce environmental impact.
Epson Leading the Future of Printing with Purpose with EcoTankEcoTank’s success is not just about the numbers; it serves as a testament to what’s possible
when a business listens to the market, adapts, and leads with purpose. The journey that began
in Southeast Asia has now become a global blueprint for meaningful, lasting innovation in the
printing industry, one that benefits homes, businesses, and the planet alike.
This article is by By Morikawa Tomohito, Managing Director of Epson Malaysia
