#Japan #Packaging #Tokyo #Kownet #Hako Katsu

Kownet's Commitment to Packaging Innovation

On August 5, recognized as 'Hako Day', Kownet Corporation, part of the Kokuyo Group and based in Tokyo, announced the establishment of the 'Hako Katsu Laboratory.' This initiative aims to maximize the benefits and usability of boxes and bags, collectively known as 'Hako.' Inspired by the growing need for packaging solutions that not only protect products but also enhance user experience, the laboratory will explore new functionalities and improvements.

Background of the Hako Katsu Laboratory

Kownet's proprietary brand, 'Kaucore,' currently offers approximately 9,300 items, developed with a strong commitment to addressing various customer issues. Since 2017, Kownet has advocated for 'Hako Katsu,' encouraging customers to repurpose empty boxes from delivered copy paper for document storage. This approach underscores the trend of recognizing additional value in packaging beyond its primary function.

In the B2B e-commerce landscape, products are often purchased in cases, making packaging not merely protective but integral to the customer experience from unboxing through to reuse and disposal. Feedback analysis indicates that while customers appreciate the durability and reusability of empty boxes, challenges such as difficulty in tape removal and perforation cutting were identified as common issues during unboxing.

To address these concerns, the newly formed Hako Katsu Laboratory will further develop the initiatives established under 'Hako Katsu,' with a primary focus on researching the ease of opening packaging in its inaugural year. This effort will not only utilize customer feedback but also leverage insights gathered over years of experience. Collaborating with external partners, including manufacturing and packaging companies, the laboratory aims to redefine the usability of packaging, enhancing operational efficiency, waste reduction, and altogether enriching the value proposition of packaging solutions.

Objective of the Hako Katsu Laboratory

The Hako Katsu Laboratory is dedicated to solving issues related to packaging, encompassing unboxing, product retrieval, repurposing, and disposal processes. By studying various dimensions of usability concerning packaging, the lab aims to contribute to operational efficiencies and waste reduction, aligning with a commitment to enhancing the customer experience. Research findings will directly feed into product development, striving for more seamless customer interactions with their purchases.

Timeline of Research Activities

The lab is set to begin its activities with a structured schedule, including:

• - June 2026: Preliminary activities focused on zipper and perforation processing workshops.
• - July 2026: Evaluation sessions reflecting on existing product features.
• - August 5, 2026: Official launch of the Hako Katsu Laboratory.
• - September - October 2026: Study of competitor packaging methods.
• - November - December 2026: Development discussions for private label products incorporating research insights.
• - 2027 Onward: Launch of products infused with research outcomes.

Leadership Insights from the Hako Katsu Laboratory

Hirokazu Aoi, Head of Product Development at Kownet, stated, "Throughout our journey with Kaucore, we've consistently sought to address our customers' challenges. One prominent issue that emerged was the packaging—often presumed purely protective—occasionally complicates the work of our customers. Minor annoyances such as difficult opening or disposal can accumulate, leading to significant inefficiencies over time."

In the B2B e-commerce space, where products are frequently sold in bulk, packaging plays a dual role as both protection and product. The Hako Katsu Laboratory's mission is to address these challenges head-on, unlocking packaging's full potential. By merging customer insights with our accumulated knowledge, we aim to fundamentally revisit packaging usability.

"The insights gained through this research will inform our product development strategies for 2027 and beyond, contributing to efficiency improvements and waste reduction while revealing new value within packaging. We invite everyone to look forward to the initiatives of the Hako Katsu Laboratory in the future!"

For more information, visit the Hako Katsu Special Page.

About Kownet

Kownet is committed to creating valuable experiences for all working individuals through technology and creativity. The company provides an e-commerce platform tailored for users, ranging from large enterprises to small businesses, offering a cloud-managed purchasing system known as 'Benrinet' and a fast online purchasing experience through the 'Kownet' portal.