#Japan #Tokyo #Biication #Aptitude Co. #Mechanics

Bridging the Gap: Biication Service for Mechanics

Introduction
The automotive industry is at a crossroads, particularly in rural areas where a shortage of skilled mechanics hampers growth and efficiency. Aptitude Co., Ltd., headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, has recognized this pressing challenge and is pioneering an innovative service called 'Biication,' launching on July 21, 2025, precisely coinciding with Marine Day.

What is Biication?
'Biication' is a unique blend of 'mechanics' and 'workation,' a term that encapsulates the modern lifestyle of working while enjoying vacation. This service targets mechanical workshops in areas where skilled technicians are scarce, necessitating the infusion of temporarily assigned registered workers (mechanics). These mechanics will stay in the region for a minimum of two months, performing essential maintenance tasks, thereby addressing the manpower crisis.

The beauty of this model lies in its dual benefits: not only does it contribute to alleviating labor shortages in rural auto shops, but it also facilitates meaningful interaction between workers and local communities, fostering deeper social connections. The registered workers will receive comprehensive support from Aptitude, including accommodation cost assistance and LINE consultation, thus promoting a flexible work style that allows them to choose both working hours and locations.

Benefits for Repair Shops
Mechanic shops will enjoy several key advantages from the implementation of Biication:

• - A competitive pricing model that charges based on work units rather than hourly rates, unlike typical staffing solutions.
• - Assurance of quality, as only certified mechanics with at least three years of practical experience will be provided.
• - An innovative hiring approach that can lead to full-time employment opportunities.
• - Comprehensive insurance coverage for work-related errors, such as equipment damage, ensures peace of mind for the workshops.

Advantages for Workers
For the mechanics themselves, the benefits are equally compelling:

• - Improved earning potential, as they are compensated based on the work they complete.
• - Flexibility to enjoy local attractions and hobbies during free time, making the workation experience enriching and fulfilling.
• - Financial aid for accommodation expenses, enhancing both comfort and productivity.
• - Immediate support through a dedicated LINE consultation service staffed by former mechanics and industry professionals to address any technical or living concerns.

Practical Applications
Biication has versatile applications for repair shops:

• - Quickly filling in for employees who are unexpectedly unavailable due to injuries or other issues.
• - Secure additional mechanics during peak business hours or times of increased demand.
• - Providing temporary support until new full-time hires join the team, ensuring uninterrupted service delivery.

Company Background and Future Vision
Aptitude commenced its journey in 2009 as a seller of automotive supplies and has since expanded its reach across various segments of the automotive aftermarket, currently collaborating with approximately 35,000 shops nationally. In 2017, the company leveraged its extensive network to launch a workforce service tailored to the automotive sector, which includes a specialized job portal called 'Kawaku' allowing for free hiring of mechanics and a recruitment service that has garnered widespread approval from businesses.

The introduction of the Biication program is a significant milestone in responding to labor shortages in regional repair facilities. By embracing a workation model, Aptitude not only respects diverse working styles among mechanics but also aims to stabilize operations in rural workshops, ultimately supporting local economies.

Looking ahead, Aptitude plans to collaborate with local governments and further expand its service offerings, tackling broader issues like vacant housing while promoting local economic revitalization and community engagement.

Company Overview

• - Name: Aptitude Co., Ltd.
• - CEO: Hideaki Ida
• - Headquarters: 1-5-5 Ebisu Minami, Shibuya, Tokyo
• - Website: Aptitude Website
• - Founded: February 2009
• - Capital: 380 million yen (including subsidiaries)
• - Employees: 230
• - Business Scope: Comprehensive HR services for mechanics, foreign workforce services, HR tech/SaaS, outsourced maintenance, manufacturing and sales of automotive parts, and environmental improvement projects for auto repair shops.

Contact
For inquiries related to the 'U-match' service and other business-related questions, feel free to reach out to our Auto and HR Department.

• - Manager: Takamichi Saito
• - Phone: 03-6694-2096 (Direct line for the department)