#Japan #logistics #Meiji #NoDa #Nestlé Japan

Meiji and Nestlé Japan Initiate Maritime Transport Collaboration

In a significant move towards improving logistics efficiency and reducing environmental impact, Meiji Co., Ltd., and Nestlé Japan Ltd. have announced the launch of a joint maritime transport initiative, set to begin on October 19, 2026. This collaboration between the two companies not only aims to optimize transportation systems but also strives to lower CO₂ emissions significantly in the process.

The maritime transport will allow for the shipping of Meiji's powdered milk products, including the popular Meiji Hohoemi, from Kanto to Kansai, while moving Nestlé's beverage products from Kansai to Kanto. This innovative approach incorporates a method known as 'Round Transport', which focuses on reducing empty runs by transporting goods on return journeys, thereby enhancing logistics efficiency. This new system is expected to cut annual CO₂ emissions by approximately 50% compared to traditional truck transportation alone.

The shift to maritime transport is a first for Meiji, which has primarily relied on truck transport for its logistics in the Kanto-Kansai corridor. Utilizing roll-on/roll-off (RORO) vessels, the transport method involves only the trailer portion of trucks being shipped, minimizing the necessity for long-distance drives by the drivers. This will subsequently reduce drivers’ working hours, leading to a more efficient logistics operation.

Meiji's powder milk products will be transported from their Noda Warehouse in Chiba to Port of Chiba, eventually reaching the Meiji West Japan MDC in Takatsuki City, Osaka. Concurrently, Nestlé's products will move from their Amagasaki MDC in Hyogo to Sakai Senboku Port, and then to Nestlé’s Noda Logistics Center in Chiba.

This collaboration emerges at a crucial time, as the logistics industry faces pressing challenges such as a shortage of truck drivers and the need for sustainable practices. Both companies recognize the importance of diversifying transportation methods and enhancing inter-company cooperation to build a sustainable logistics system.

Meiji's official stance on this collaboration highlights not only immediate logistics benefits but also a commitment to a long-term vision for sustainability as outlined in their environmental engagement plan entitled ‘Meiji Green Engagement for 2050’. They are striving for carbon neutrality across their entire value chain by 2050, aiming to limit the global temperature increase in line with the Paris Agreement targets.

Similarly, Nestlé Japan, the Japanese subsidiary of the global food and beverage giant based in Switzerland, continues to emphasize the importance of sustainability in their operations. Since its establishment in 1913, Nestlé has aimed to enhance the quality of life for current and future generations through safe, delicious, and environmentally considerate products.

The maritime transport initiative will initially operate once a week in both directions, allowing for a gradual increase in frequency, starting from a monthly service. As both companies monitor the operational performance of this venture, they remain open to exploring additional routes and additional areas for potential expansion in the future.

The collaboration between Meiji and Nestlé Japan marks an important step towards a more eco-friendly logistics system, setting an example for other companies within the industry to follow. Through innovative approaches such as these, we can hope for a more sustainable and efficient logistics landscape in the coming years.

Overview of the New Maritime Transport Initiative

• - Start Date: October 19, 2026 (Meiji: Kanto to Kansai) and October 22, 2026 (Nestlé: Kansai to Kanto)
• - Frequency: Initially once a month, then increasing to weekly round trips.
• - Products Transported:

- Meiji’s powdered milk products including Meiji Hohoemi.
- Nestlé’s beverages including Nescafé Gold Blend.

• - Transport Route:

- Outbound: Noda Warehouse (Noda, Chiba) → Chiba Port → Meiji West Japan MDC (Takatsuki, Osaka)
- Return: Nestlé Amagasaki MDC (Amagasaki, Hyogo) → Sakai Senboku Port → Noda Logistics Center (Noda, Chiba)

Logistics Provider

Yusen Logistics Co., Ltd. will manage the transportation process throughout.

For more information about maritime transportation, visit the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism document here.