Corporate
Profile

[Company strength]
Our specialty papers play a major role in modern technology, but the basic manufacturing methods are based on a centuries-old technology for making washi (Japanese paper) called “Nagashi-suki.” Natural fibers such as mitsumata are normally used in making washi. However, in 1958, we created a paper from synthetic fiber for the first time in the world. Now we can manufacture paper from chemical fibers, metallic and ceramic powders, and other materials that no one ever thought it was possible, in addition to natural fibers. That is the strength of our company.

[Business description]
We manufacture and sell specialty papers and nonwoven fabrics. Our company has made sheets from various fibers since its establishment in 1947, including wood fiber as well as non-wood fiber, chemical fiber, and other kinds of fibers. Our motto is “Convert All Possible Fibers into Paper (sheets).” We have ever developed many kinds of products, and still have been developing various types of new products.

[Industry]
Specialty paper and nonwoven fabric manufacturing

[Strength of products/technologies]
Characteristics of wet-laid nonwoven fabric include: (1) sheets are highly even; (2) it can be made from a variety of materials; and (3) it can be made from mixed materials. We use these characteristics to manufacture various kinds of wet-laid nonwoven fabric and develop products targeting niche markets. Our main lineup comprises a variety of products. These include polyester papers, heat-sealable papers, base materials for masking tape, double-sided tape and battery separators, and so on. 

[Representative's message]
Our company has been manufacturing specialty papers since its establishment in 1947 for a wide range of applications. Our motto is “Convert All Possible Fibers into Paper.” We have the Chinese character for “seed” instead of “special” in our company name. This is because our products (papers) are made as a result of R&D on special types of fibers and raw materials (“seeds”). We will continue to develop specialty papers, functional papers, and nonwoven fabrics that specifically cater to our customers’ needs. This will be done through the advanced technologies we have cultivated so far, and flexible creativity. 

[Company structure for market development/overseas expansion]
In the 1980s we partnered with C.H. Dexter Company in the US and started to manufacture and sell products for food, industrial, and medical use. In the 1990s we built an electrical insulating paper factory in the city of Anqing in China. This was a joint venture with Gaohe Paper Mill in the same city intended to implement a borderless strategy to suit the needs of the times. We currently have 3 affiliated companies including a trading company in Hong Kong and a paper mill and a processing plant in Anqing.

[Awards and media coverage]
[Awards]  Japan Invention Award (1970); Fujiwara Award (1971); Regional Invention Encouragement Award (1977); 1st Director General of Science and Technology Agency Award (1981).

[Media]  Ehime Shimbun, morning edition (February 6, 2014); Yomiuri TV, “News Scramble” (January 21, 2008).

[Authorization/Certification]
ISO 14001 (obtained in January 16, 2006); ISO 9001 (obtained in January 6, 2012).

[Joint research and development]
We have many joint development projects with major enterprises, universities, and public institutions, but the information cannot be disclosed due to confidentiality obligations.

[Factory (domestic)]
Ehime

[Other sites]
Headquarters, Ehime

[Transaction form]
OEM contracts, licensing contracts, joint development, consignment manufacturing, and sales of products and materials.

[Transaction terms]
Based on our terms and conditions. International shipments are only by sea. 

[Main Clients / Business History (domestic)]
Major tape manufacturer, major battery manufacture, major food manufacturer, major transformer manufacturer, and many others.

[Main Clients / Business History (overseas)]
Overseas manufacturers of tapes, water treatment plants, transformers, and many others.

[Exhibition History/Information]
INTERNEPCON 2012; Neo Functional Material 2013 and 2014.