Xerox 'committed to developing new office products'

Office supplies manufacturer Xerox has said its commitment to research and development will steer it through the current economic crisis. The company earned more than 600 patents in 2008, exceeding its target for the 12-month period by one-third.

Xerox believes that developing new innovations, such as ink cartridges, toner and printers, will help it continue to thrive during these "tough" economic times. Indeed, the firm warned that if it fails to keep rolling out new and pioneering office equipment, there could be a "product gap" in the future.

Sophie Vandebroek, chief technology officer at Xerox, commented: "It's also a source of pride for us. "More than 2,300 employees, past and present, have been granted five or more patents - an extraordinary accomplishment." Xerox earned more than 230 industry awards during 2008 - more than 20 per cent more than in the previous year.