Kanematsu Introduces KG ZAICO in Mexico
Kanematsu Corporation, a well-known Japanese firm, is marking its entry into the Mexican market by offering its cloud-based inventory management software, KG ZAICO. This software is tailored for Japanese manufacturing companies operating in Mexico, with the aim of digitizing spare parts management and significantly improving operational efficiency and productivity. The initiative targets approximately 1,600 Japanese-affiliated companies and local enterprises in Mexico that operate factories.
Background
In recent years, Mexico has become a hub for various Japanese manufacturing industries, particularly in the automotive sector. However, the country's labor landscape is evolving, with legal reforms reducing the maximum working hours from 48 to 40, alongside rising minimum wages. These changes are increasing the imperatives for enhancing operational efficiency and productivity within local companies. One prominent issue faced by these businesses is the management of production tools, molds, and consumable items like helmets and rubber gloves. While inventory management for products and parts is typically rigorous, many companies still rely on manual processes or Excel for managing these essential supplies. This outdated approach leads to increased workloads due to inefficiencies in incoming and outgoing inventory checks, stocktaking, and replenishment decisions.
About KG ZAICO
KG ZAICO is developed to address these challenges by providing a user-friendly cloud-based inventory management application. It allows real-time tracking and management of supplies via smartphones, tablets, and PCs. Since its launch in Japan in July 2022, KG ZAICO has already been successfully implemented by over 100 companies, ranging from large automotive manufacturers to small businesses.
Expansion into Mexico
To facilitate ease of use, especially on factory floors, Kanematsu will provide a Spanish version of the KG ZAICO app for Android, alongside an English web application for desktop management. This will ensure that staff can easily manage inventory processes on-site using smartphones.
Current Status in Mexico
Kanematsu is actively engaging with several Japanese manufacturers already operating in Mexico to introduce KG ZAICO and facilitate trial implementations. Some companies are in preparation stages for full deployment. The implementation of KG ZAICO is expected to streamline real-time inventory confirmation and management. This advancement will help reduce instances of stockouts and overstock situations.
Moreover, early detection of shortages in materials and equipment sourced from Japan will enhance the ability to make planned orders, thereby minimizing reliance on air freight for replenishment and leading to decreases in transport costs.
Future Plans
Aligning with its mid-term management strategy, 'integration 1.1,' Kanematsu aims to expand the value it provides through innovations like KG ZAICO. By leveraging its expertise in digital transformation support for manufacturers developed in Japan, the company plans to continue its global expansion, contributing to increased operational efficiency and productivity in the manufacturing sector in Mexico and beyond.
For inquiries regarding the service, please contact Kanematsu Corporation, Electronic Headquarters, New Business Development Division at
Kanematsu KG ZAICO.