#Japan #Tokyo #Supply Chain #Funai Consulting #Logistics Provider

Major Changes in the Logistics Provider Management Group

In a significant development for the logistics sector, Funai Consulting Inc. has announced a restructuring of the Logistics Provider Management Group (LPS), tailored to better support its members' diverse needs. As of February 2026, this initiative follows a milestone achievement of surpassing 350 member companies, reflecting the growing demand for specialized support and deeper engagement in addressing unique business challenges.

New Divisional Structure

The new framework will transition from the existing two-division model to a four-division structure, which includes:

1. Foreign Driver Empowerment Division (Tokyo): As the hiring of foreign drivers becomes a critical concern within the logistics industry, this newly established division will focus on recruitment strategies, onboarding protocols, and retention measures, ensuring that companies can effectively navigate this complex landscape.

2. Truck Business Division - Osaka: Resuming operations after a six-year hiatus, this division aims to strengthen networking and discussions among member companies based in the Kansai region. The emphasis will be on sharing region-specific challenges and fostering cooperative relationships, such as transport sharing and vehicle resource management.

3. Truck Business Division - Tokyo: This ongoing division will deepen its focus on enhancing the sustainability of transportation businesses. It aims to provide insights into optimizing hiring procedures, enhancing dispatch efficiencies, and facilitating digital transformations that elevate management quality.

4. Total Logistics Division (Tokyo): Targeting firms involved in logistics center operations and third-party logistics (3PL), this division will tackle large-scale management issues, including M&A strategies and diversification, by centralizing discussions at its Tokyo venue.

Addressing Industry-Wide Challenges

The restructuring comes at a time when logistics companies are contending with numerous challenges, such as the looming 2024 issue, labor shortages, rising operational costs, and the need for digital transformation (DX). LPS recognizes that the granular needs of its member companies have evolved significantly, necessitating a more specialized approach in discussions and solutions offered.

By facilitating a platform for intense discussions focused on specific themes and member attributes, LPS aims to empower companies to address these pressing challenges effectively, thereby supporting their growth trajectories.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, LPS is actively considering the creation of new sub-divisions tailored to address emerging issues in the logistics sector. One potential initiative is to launch a division dedicated to the critical shortage of truck mechanics, which poses an even greater risk than the current driver shortage. Plans are in place to explore strengthening in-house maintenance operations and strategies for attracting and retaining skilled mechanics.

The Mission of the Logistics Provider Management Group

LPS operates under the mission of “Creating Logistics Companies that Employees Can Take Pride In,” serving as a performance enhancement platform for over 350 logistics firms across the country. Through programs such as regular meetings for executives, theme-based online meetings for practitioners, and site visits to leading enterprises, LPS delivers timely information and tools that directly contribute to improved business performance.

About Funai Consulting Inc.

Founded in 2000, Funai Consulting Inc. specializes in hands-on consulting for medium- and small-scale logistics firms, providing services ranging from acquiring new clients and negotiating transportation rates to driver recruitment and human resources strategies. Beyond consulting, the firm manages LPS, the largest management platform for mid-sized and small logistics companies in Japan, aggregating over 350 executives nationwide.

For further information on LPS, visit Logistics Provider Management Group.