Navigating challenges in niche markets: a perspective from Aikokiki, one of Japan’s leading manufacturers.
“Balancing legacy and innovation, we aim to become indispensable to our customers.”
Tsukasa Kurata, President, AIKOKIKI MFG. CO., LTD.
Founded in 1970, Aikokiki has shown its strategic nous that sets it apart in the dynamic semiconductor landscape.
“Our specialization is in flip Chip BGA semi-finished products, or package core substrates,” says company president Tsukasa Kurata, a domain that constitutes a substantial 60-70% of its business. This unique focus offers an undeniable edge in a field where few even consider supplying semi-finished products.
An integral facet of Aikokiki’s operations is its manufacturing facility in Nakatsugawa, producing PWBs primarily serving factory automation and industrial equipment sectors.
“Many of these boards are supplied to major Japanese electronics manufacturers,” the president explains, underscoring their strategic influence in supporting these critical industries.
With Japan’s fluctuating role in the semiconductor industry, Mr. Kurata attributes the decline to resource fragmentation and insufficient governmental backing. However, he perceives a chance for Japan to rebound through investments and collaborations, particularly with effective government and industry partnerships, providing an opportunity for a renewed semiconductor hub.
“We acquired the Shibata factory, making preparations for the anticipated market resurgence,” he says, with eyes on intriguing synergies, especially in the context of electric vehicles and smart grid projects.
As Aikokiki approaches its 55th anniversary, Mr. Kurata envisions enhanced employee welfare, technological innovation, and sustainable growth, with a roadmap that maintains equilibrium between legacy and advanced products while fostering close collaboration with its parent company.
“Someday, we want to become the only company that is indispensable to our customers in a certain field.”
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