Konica Minolta Inc and FUJIFILM Business Innovation have announced plans to explore a “potential strategic alliance” in multifunction printer and printer areas.
In a joint statement, Konica Minolta Inc and FUJIFILM Business Innovation announced they have signed a a memorandum of understanding to begin a feasibility study for a strategic alliance in the multifunction printer (MFP), office printer, and production printer segments.
The companies said they are “actively considering a business alliance to strengthen their business foundation, including the development of a robust supply system for their products” and are also “seeking to expand other business alliances and continue discussions”.
According to the statement, the main details of these discussions include:
1. Procurement business alliance
- Exploring the establishment of a joint venture to coordinate the procurement of raw materials and parts.
- Tentative timetable for establishment of a joint venture: Second quarter of FY2024
- Shareholding ratio: Majority ownership by FUJIFILM Business Innovation Corp.
2. Toner development and production business alliance
3. Other business alliances
- Discussion and agreement on other strategic collaborations related to the subject business will be addressed separately.
“Sharing a common understating of the challenges facing the business, the two leading companies will be able to mutually maximise strengths through this alliance,” said Toshimitsu Taiko, president and CEO, Konica Minolta, Inc.
“I am looking forward to working together to improve investment efficiency and cost-competitiveness, strengthen capabilities for stable supply, environmental initiatives, and business continuity plans (BCP), and pursue the potential for enhancing business resilience as global manufacturers.”
Naoki Hama, president and CEO, FUJIFILM Business Innovation Corp, said: “The ongoing discussions for this business alliance are of immense importance as we strive to strengthen our competitiveness and expand our global presence to make a significant leap forward. We are confident that this partnership will create a new framework to enhance our supply chain and build a robust business foundation.”
Konica Minolta Australia and New Zealand chief marketing officer, Melissa Dempsey, told Sprinter: “This alliance will stabilise supply chains and strengthen both businesses.”
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