Epson and Canon Gain Efficiency through Joint Distribution Operations

Two major Japanese printer manufacturers, Seiko Epson Corp. and Canon Inc., began joint distribution operations between their sales subsidiaries (Epson Sales Japan Corp. and Canon Marketing Japan Inc.) in June 2009 in order to handle shipments to some retail stores. The objective is to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions while improving the efficiency of their businesses.

Both companies operate their own distribution center in each major city. However, they had been considering a joint shipping process because they share destinations and requirements when shipping to mass retailers of household appliances, such as home printers.

Having verified that employing Nippon Express Co. - a freight shipping company that both Epson and Canon already conduct business with - would allow smooth implementation, improved truck load-to-capacity ratios and reduced environmental burden, the companies agreed to proceed with the joint operations.

The companies plan to gradually expand the coverage area nationwide, starting in the Sapporo area of Hokkaido Prefecture. As compared to the previous separate operations, the project is estimated to reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 26 percent.

Although they are market competitors, Epson and Canon already have cooperative framework in place, such as the "Ink Cartridge Homecoming Project" to collect used ink cartridges, and hope to continue implementing such projects.

Major Japanese Breweries Start Joint Deliveries to Cut CO2 Emissions (Related JFS article)
http://www.japanfs.org/en/pages/028525.html

Posted: 2009/09/27 06:00:15 AM