Ricoh USA Inc. has announced a partnership with human connection expert Erica Dhawan for its annual 2025 Customer Service Week celebration. The collaboration underscores Ricoh's dedication to delivering what customers value most — trustworthy, people-first service and personal experiences in a technology-driven world.

Throughout October, Ricoh and Dhawan will spark conversations on the critical role of human connection in delivering positive, memorable customer experiences. Through expert interviews and social engagement, Dhawan will explore Ricoh's "People Powered" approach, offering strategic insight and thought leadership. Together, they will reinforce the position that while technology drives efficiency, authentic, person-to-person relationships build trust, inspire loyalty and create lasting market differentiation.

"Trust is built, not programmed," Dhawan said. "When organizations combine smart technology with genuine human service, they earn loyalty that lasts. Ricoh's teams show how consistency, empathy and authentic connection turn customers into long-term partners."

According to Ricoh's new study exploring the importance of human connection, 85% of respondents state they are more likely to remain loyal to companies that prioritize genuine human service over automation alone, and 94% say investing in authentic human connection creates long-term competitive advantage. As organizations increasingly rely on digital tools, Ricoh remains steadfast in its belief that people — and the relationships they build — are the foundation of service excellence.

"At Ricoh, enabling authentic interactions is about empowering our teams to listen deeply, act with empathy and build relationships that go beyond transactions," said Carsten Bruhn, president and CEO, Ricoh North America. "By working side by side with our customers and truly understanding their business, we're able to anticipate needs, solve challenges quickly, and deliver relevant, meaningful services for every customer."