Trading Companies Part 2—Although many trading firms focus on domestic demand, a generational change has been under way recently, resulting in an increase in younger managers. Merchants of this new generation have begun setting their sights not just within the country but overseas as well. They are also eager to explore new markets and develop new technologies and products.
Industry
Rubber Industry Forecast ’16 (Part 3)—One-Third of Traders Expect Stagnation
Trading Companies Part 1—A recent survey of trading companies in Japan conducted by Japan Rubber Weekly found that about 70 percent of respondents saw tough times ahead in 2016. The survey of 330 trading companies in Japan received 203 responses (62 percent response rate). Trading companies play a crucial role in Japan’s distribution.
Rubber Industry Forecast ’16 (Part 2)—50% of Manufacturers Expect Higher Sales
Manufacturers Part 2—Under 1 percent of respondents answered that they expect "double-digit growth" for "forecast (planned) 2016 net sales," while roughly half the companies, or 48 percent, forecast "single-digit growth." A total of only 14 percent of respondents forecast either "single-digit" or "double-digit" declines in revenues.
Rubber Industry Forecast ’16 (Part 1)—Manufacturers Expect Stable or Better Performance
Manufacturers Part 1—A recent survey conducted by Japan Rubber Weekly found that over half of respondents, or 54 percent, expect the rubber industry's performance to remain "stable" in 2016, while 23 percent believe it will be "somewhat better" or "better." Meanwhile, 21 percent responded that it will be "somewhat worse" or "worse."
Interior Auto Materials, Condoms Performing Strongly—Okamoto
New Year’s Top Interview: Okamoto Industries President Yoshiyuki Okamoto President Yoshiyuki Okamoto of Okamoto Industries Inc. (TYO:5122) said recently in…...
Improving the Product Pipeline—Achilles
New Year’s Top Interview: Achilles President Mamoru Ito President Mamoru Ito of Achilles Corp. (TYO:5142) spoke recently with Japan Rubber…...
