Util's Acquisition of VALUE WORKS: Transforming Content Creation for SMEs in Japan

In a significant move to bolster its capabilities, Util Inc., based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, has acquired VALUE WORKS, a company specializing in content creation. This acquisition is poised to accelerate the digital transformation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Japan by integrating VALUE WORKS' extensive expertise in content production with Util's AI BPO services.

The Rationale Behind the Acquisition

Util has always been driven by the vision of "unlocking the potential of SMEs throughout Japan." With the increasing demand for high-quality content due to the ongoing push for digital transformation (DX) within SMEs, the need for enhanced websites and owned media presence has surged. Unfortunately, many of these companies face challenges in outsourcing content creation due to costs, resource constraints, and lack of expertise.

For example, creating an article that maintains a certain level of expertise generally costs several tens of thousands of yen per piece, and typically, at least 20 articles are needed to create a viable content strategy. For many SMEs, hiring personnel dedicated solely to content creation is a daunting prospect, given their limited resources.

To address these issues, Util has acquired VALUE WORKS, strengthening its support framework through the synergy of both companies' capabilities in content creation and AI BPO.

Launching the Next Generation: "Article Production Kid"

VALUE WORKS boasts a rich track record of producing and editing articles for a wide range of industries, both BtoB and BtoC. The acquisition marks the beginning of the full-scale introduction of their new service, "Article Production Kid," aimed specifically at SMEs.

By marrying Util's SEO expertise, developed through its online consultation service "Web Kanji," with VALUE WORKS' content production prowess, this new service will deliver high-quality, SEO-friendly articles at a fraction of the traditional cost.

Through innovative use of artificial intelligence, the service will automate crucial processes such as outline generation, fact-checking, and proofreading. A two-tier system, where VALUE WORKS' editors finalize the drafts, will ensure quality results.

Key Benefits of the New Service:

- Reduced Lead Time: The time from project initiation to delivery will be cut down to one-third, greatly improving efficiency.
- Cost Reduction: Businesses can expect to see a 50-70% reduction in costs compared to traditional content creation methods.

With these advancements, high-quality content will finally be accessible to SMEs that previously found outsourcing prohibitively costly.

Read more about the service here: Article Production Kid

Leadership Insights: A Focus on Growth

The newly appointed leaders of both companies express optimism regarding the future. According to Masaru Iwata, CEO of Util, welcoming VALUE WORKS into the Util group allows for an enriched framework to aid SMEs in overcoming the challenges of information dissemination and attracting customers.

"By fusing VALUE WORKS' content expertise with our AI-driven BPO framework, we’re confident in lowering the barriers that SMEs face when it comes to information sharing and customer acquisition," Iwata stated.

Kota Tajiri, the CEO of VALUE WORKS, also expressed excitement about their new chapter within Util. He believes that the combined capacity of AI and BPO can address crucial issues within the realm of information dissemination and customer attraction.

"I am passionate about utilizing our accumulated experience to support Util's vision of unlocking the potential of SMEs across Japan and improving their digital capabilities," Tajiri remarked.

Future Directions for Util

Util is keen on expanding its AI and SaaS integrated services in the realm of business process outsourcing (AI BPO). In addition to their existing service, "Homepage Production Kid," they have now launched "Article Production Kid," emphasizing their commitment to serving the digital needs of SMEs.

The company aims to create an environment where SMEs throughout Japan can harness digital technologies effectively and accelerate their business growth.

About Util and Article Production Kid

Company Name: Util Inc.
CEO: Masaru Iwata
Founded: April 6, 2015
Capital: 100 million yen
Headquarters: 2F VerdeVista Shinjuku Gyoen, 1-34-5 Shinjuku, Tokyo, 160-0022
Website: Util

Article Production Kid Overview:
Company Name: Article Production Kid (100% owned subsidiary of Util)
CEO: Shota Kobayashi
Headquarters: 2F VerdeVista Shinjuku Gyoen, 1-34-5 Shinjuku, Tokyo, 160-0022
Website: Homepage Production Kid