ISHIHARA CHEMICAL CO.,LTD., a surfactant and interface-chemistry manufacturer founded approximately 120 years ago, operates primarily in electronic components, automotive products and industrial chemicals. Its medium-term plan calls for developing new products and expanding into adjacent fields and overseas markets, while accelerating the commercialization of new materials such as copper nanopowder.
Founded in 1900, ISHIHARA CHEMICAL CO.,LTD. has developed from its base in Kobe and is now positioned as a research and development-driven company that handles everything from in-house R&D to manufacturing and sales. Its business is divided into 3 areas: electronics-related products, automotive products and industrial chemicals. The company combines plating solutions for electronic components, OEM supply of automotive products and the trading of industrial chemicals to drive its business.
In recent years, the company has begun developing new electronic materials, including copper nanopowder, and is currently conducting mass-production testing of printed circuits using copper nanoink. It is also expanding the supply of advanced plating solutions to support accelerating data-center investment and the mass production of high-performance semiconductors, while accelerating entry into adjacent fields and overseas expansion.
The medium-term management plan centers on developing new products and cultivating markets in adjacent fields and new regions, with M&A also under consideration as a strategic means. The company has stated a policy of advancing PMI (post-merger integration) following the integration of Kizai Co., Ltd. and expanding its overseas bases from China and Taiwan to ASEAN.
While recognizing intensifying competition with major U.S. companies in overseas markets, the company emphasizes a differentiation strategy that reflects the characteristics of each local market. Through increased sales of air-conditioner cleaners and vehicle-interior-related products, it aims to expand its share of high-value-added products in Japan and overseas.