#Japan #Yamagata #Keisho Japan Fund #Long Black Partners #Central Lease

Long Black Partners Group Supports Central Lease's Business Succession

In a significant move to bolster business succession in Japan, Long Black Partners Group has successfully acquired shares of Central Lease Co., Ltd. through its subsidiary, LBPI Inc., as part of the Keisho Japan Fund No. 2 investment vehicle. This strategic investment underscores the group's commitment to supporting the growth of Central Lease, further enhancing its potential for future expansion.

Overview of the Investment

The Keisho Japan Fund No. 2, established to aid in business succession and growth initiatives, has explicitly targeted Central Lease for its promising prospects in the leasing sector. This acquisition aligns with Long Black's vision of investing in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that form the backbone of Japan's economy, particularly in regional areas where such enterprises can thrive.

In collaboration with Yamagata Bank's investment subsidiary, Yamagata Co-Creation Partners, the joint investment will allow both entities to work closely in supporting Central Lease’s business operations moving forward. This partnership aims to ensure that Central Lease not only survives but flourishes in an increasingly competitive landscape.

About Central Lease Co., Ltd.

Founded in 1991 and headquartered in Nanyo City, Yamagata Prefecture, Central Lease focuses on providing rental services for temporary scaffolding and eco-friendly maintenance equipment. Over the years, the company has played an instrumental role in developing residential infrastructure across the Tohoku and Niigata regions. Central Lease places a strong emphasis on safety management, quality control, and workforce development, which are crucial in maintaining a robust operational framework.

The recent investment will further enable Central Lease to enhance its talent investment strategies and drive business growth, ensuring that it continues to meet the needs of its customers effectively.

Investment Fund Details

1. Keisho Japan Fund No. 2
- Management Company: LBPI Inc.
- Total Fund Size: ¥7 billion
- Investment Goal: Business succession and growth support
- Established: July 2025

2. Yamagata Co-Creation Fund No. 1
- Management Company: Yamagata Co-Creation Partners
- Total Fund Size: ¥3 billion
- Investment Goal: Business succession, new business development, regional revitalization, etc.
- Established: April 2022

As part of its mission, the Keisho Japan Fund No. 2 receives contributions from the Small and Medium Enterprise Agency and various local financial institutions. Its primary aim is to foster business succession in essential SMEs that are critical for regional economic stability across Japan.

With continuous support from its investors and strategic partnerships, Long Black Partners Group is poised to make a significant impact on Central Lease's trajectory, ensuring that the company remains a key player in the regional market.

For further inquiries, please contact the Management Department of Long Black Partners Group at:

• - Phone: 03-6674-2314
• - Email: [email protected]