Digital Transformation (DX)

Masahiro Harada

Managing Executive Officer
Digital Transformation Committee Chair

Taking the Kanematsu Group to a New Stage with DX
Under “integration 1.0,“ the new medium-term management plan introduced in April 2024, DX is a priority target. Through the enhancement of ICT solutions and maximization of Group synergies, Kanematsu aims to transform and create supply chains by identifying customers’ issues and needs and providing them with optimal solutions.
As part of this effort, the ICT Solution Division, centered on Kanematsu Electronics Ltd. (KEL), was newly established in the fiscal year under review. By leveraging KEL’s strengths in IT infrastructure and security products and services, which it has been supplying to the Kanematsu Group’s broad network, the division aims to expand the Group’s customer base, increase revenues, and expand overseas operations. In addition, the division will promote the realization of supply chain digitalization solutions by appointing key personnel with expertise in DX and IT strategies.
The Digital Transformation (DX) Committee established a subcommittee this fiscal year to further advance the use of generative AI and data analysis. Furthermore, it is promoting the business application of the latest technologies through the establishment of new DX investment limits and execution criteria. This is in addition to supporting those undertaking the challenges of the demonstration phase for projects that meet certain criteria throughout the Group.
In order to strengthen the Group’s lineup of human and intellectual capital capable of DX promotion, the DX Committee is also focusing on improving employee IT literacy. The entire Group is engaged in DX-focused human resource development, supporting those pursuing various public qualifications such as IT Passport and undertaking personnel exchanges with KEL. Furthermore, in response to the increasing frequency of cyberattacks, the KEL Group provides security training and is strengthening its own corporate cybersecurity initiatives.
We at Kanematsu believe that the burden of DX promotion should not be undertaken by a single department working alone, but rather that the entire Kanematsu Group, transcending divisional and corporate boundaries, should work together to promote DX. True change can be achieved only if all employees understand the importance of DX and incorporate it into their daily duties. With the cooperation and support of all, Kanematsu will further accelerate DX promotion and become a solutions provider and trading company that offers new value throughout the supply chain.