On April 1, 2026, Mitsumi Group, headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, appointed Arata Shimizu as the new president. This announcement comes as the company reinforces its commitment to enhancing AI-driven manufacturing processes, aiming to connect customers with suppliers through an advanced AI platform. With more than 320,000 clients worldwide, Mitsumi has dedicated itself to evolving its business model since its foundation in 1963, focusing primarily on the manufacturing sector.
Mitsumi started with catalog sales and has since pioneered innovations such as EDI connections, online sales, and the 'meviy' service, which automates cost estimation through AI using 3D drawings. By strengthening its product variation and leveraging both in-house manufacturing and partner networks, the company ensures quick delivery times while achieving mass customization.
Shimizu emphasized the company's core strengths in enhancing customers' manufacturing processes, particularly their time value. As the digital transformation accelerates and the industry shifts towards generative AI, these advancements create significant opportunities for transformative processes. Shimizu identified two key aspects of this change: the capability to enhance and accelerate existing process reforms and the expansion of customer markets due to the growth of AI.
AI is expected to drive sectors like semiconductors, infrastructure, robotics, agro-tech, and optical-electronic fusion, which will benefit Mitsumi. The company is poised to provide further transformative processes within traditional automotive and factory automation industries.
By combining its manufacturing capabilities and IT expertise with AI utilization, Mitsumi aims to enhance product strength. The vision is to create new customer engagement points powered by an AI platform that connects suppliers and clients, boosting global supply chain capabilities for sustainable growth.
Biography of Arata Shimizu
Arata Shimizu, born on June 1, 1972, in Yamanashi Prefecture, graduated from Seikei University with a degree in engineering in 1997. He began his career at Accenture and rapidly progressed through various leadership roles. With experience leading strategic consulting, he held executive positions in different companies including COO of COS and external director roles in technology firms.
From 2020 onwards, Shimizu has been involved with Mitsumi, serving as an external director and, more recently, as a senior executive. His past leadership roles and extensive experience in digital transformation and strategy position him well to guide Mitsumi into its next chapter.
About Mitsumi Group
Mitsumi Group sells machine parts, tools, and consumables essential for manufacturing to over 320,000 companies globally as of March 2025. It uniquely integrates manufacturing functions with its trading business model, contributing to customer convenience by realizing 'global reliable quick delivery.' The company is set to further enhance its capabilities to adapt to the evolving landscape of global manufacturing.