GK had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Koichiro Osawa, President of Nippon Kako-Kizai Co., Ltd., about the company’s evolution from customer-driven sustainability to global SDG alignment, its innovation in paper-based solutions like fire-retardant tubes and VS PACK, and its renewed branding and internationalization efforts.
How has the increased pursuit of SDG compliance by wider industry affected your operations? How else are you contributing to SDGs and CSR?
Our use of sustainable materials came naturally from prioritizing client needs rather than SDGs, but it aligns well with them. We’re fortunate to have a green image and aim to expand these efforts globally. We are also committed to rolling out our initiatives beyond Japan’s borders.
How do your products add value across industries, and what role does paper packaging play in Japan’s logistics future?
We can make products entirely from paper, but true sustainability comes from using recycled paper and reducing raw material use. As the industry shifts toward “paperization,” we’ll keep honing our expertise, believing monozukuri applies to packaging as well.
Which product area is your current focus and where are you seeing the most growth?
Our linear paper tube, developed in 2003, offers structural advantages over spiral tubes and enabled entry into construction. We’re finalizing a fire-retardant version, meeting strict standards, and preparing for commercialization.
How do you approach product design? Any new developments coming?
We develop through both client-driven and internal R&D. Our VS PACK desiccant is one example. We’re now investing in a new factory to support a fire-retardant construction material expected to launch soon.
What does the future look like for your company and what’s your midterm plan, including internationalization?
Following earlier entries in Asia, we’re investing in Vietnam through joint ventures. To address recent marketing challenges and boost global visibility, we’ve launched a branding committee and are leveraging social media and digital tools to better promote our products. We also have offers from overseas business partners in Europe, and we have set up a branding committee to better market our products.
