#Japan #Tokyo #JMS #Alcare #Sigma Cross

Medical Manufacturers Unite for Efficient Healthcare Logistics

In an important step forward for the healthcare logistics sector, four leading medical manufacturers in Japan, including Alcare Corporation, Kawamoto Sangyo Co., Ltd., J.M.S. Co., Ltd., and Nihon Sigmaco Co., Ltd., will collaborate to improve the transportation of medical products across the country. This initiative, set to commence on February 3, 2026, aims to streamline the delivery process and enhance the stability of medical product supplies.

Objectives of the Initiative

The joint delivery system is a result of the Medical Distribution Strategy Study Group, established in August 2024 by seven healthcare manufacturers who recognized the pressing challenges in logistics. By pooling their resources and expertise, these companies aim to enhance logistics efficiency, maintain a stable supply of medical products, and contribute to sustainable healthcare and care services.

Logistics Transformation: Key Features

Starting in February 2026, the four manufacturers will initiate collaborative shipping to select clients in Eastern Japan. By consolidating their transportation efforts, these companies expect to reduce the total number of trucks utilized, improve loading rates, alleviate driver shortages, and reduce logistics costs. Furthermore, this initiative will aid in minimizing carbon dioxide emissions, thereby reducing the environmental impact of their operations. Future plans will include expanding delivery routes and partnering with more clients, ensuring broader accessibility to medical products.

Foundational Background of the Study Group

The nature of medical products requires a consistent and reliable supply chain. Recently, however, there has been a growing demand for diverse and specialized medical products from healthcare institutions and home care services. At the same time, the logistics sector is grappling with a labor environment transformation, marked by driver shortages and challenges highlighted by the '2024 Problem.'

Thus, the launch of the Medical Distribution Strategy Study Group, involving Alcare, Kawamoto Sangyo, J.M.S., Taketora Co., Ltd., Nihon Sigmaco, Hakujuji Co., Ltd., and one additional company, aims to take on these logistical issues by promoting collaboration and sharing expertise among participants.

Key Goals

The group identifies the following priorities:

• - Maintain and enhance the stable supply system for medical products.
• - Explore the utilization of shared logistics warehouses and effective cargo transportation through collaborative information systems development.

Moving forward, the Medical Distribution Strategy Study Group will strive to collaborate with various partners and stakeholders to contribute to solutions for societal issues and support sustainable healthcare and care services.

Companies Involved

The companies participating in this initiative bring valuable logistical know-how to optimize the medical supply chain. Here is a brief overview of their roles:

• - Alcare Corporation: Specializes in the development, manufacturing, and sales of medical devices and consumables. More Info
• - Kawamoto Sangyo Co., Ltd.: Manufactures and sells hygiene products, medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, nursing supplies, and childcare goods. More Info
• - J.M.S. Co., Ltd.: Focuses on manufacturing and selling medical devices and pharmaceuticals. More Info
• - Taketora Co., Ltd.: Engages in the development and sales of medical hygiene materials and devices, nursing equipment, and support tools. More Info
• - Nihon Sigmaco Co., Ltd.: Develops and manufactures medical devices, medical supplies, and supports physical activity for everyday life. More Info
• - Hakujuji Co., Ltd.: Involved in manufacturing and selling hygiene materials, medical devices, and pharmaceuticals. More Info

This initiative underscores the commitment of these medical manufacturers to innovate logistics in order to ensure that healthcare providers can deliver high-quality product care while effectively meeting the needs of patients and healthcare systems across Japan.