In a significant move to support the digital transformation (DX) of regional businesses, Hokuriku Bank has announced a partnership with Cacco, a data science technology firm specializing in AI, statistics, and mathematical optimization. This collaboration aims to leverage advanced data science techniques to address the challenges faced by businesses in the Hokuriku region, enhancing their operational efficiency and maximizing profits.
Background of the Partnership
In recent years, the urgency for Japanese companies, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in rural areas, to implement digital transformation has become apparent. Despite 77.9% of U.S. companies engaging in some form of DX, only 69.3% of Japanese companies have taken similar steps, highlighting an eight-point gap. Large enterprises with over 301 employees often cite the recruitment of essential talent for DX implementation as a significant challenge. In contrast, smaller firms with fewer than 100 employees struggle with a lack of knowledge and resources related to digital technologies, which creates more fundamental barriers to progress. This context underscores the necessity for collaborative efforts to promote DX across all business sizes, prompting Hokuriku Bank and Cacco to unite in this endeavor.
Collaboration Overview
With this strategic partnership, Hokuriku Bank will utilize its expansive sales network to connect with local businesses facing data utilization challenges. Cacco’s expertise in AI, statistics, and mathematical optimization will enable these companies to enhance their sales efficiency and productivity. These initiatives are intended to not only drive immediate operational improvements but also ensure sustainable growth for regional businesses.
Looking toward the future, Hokuriku Bank and Cacco plan to extend their collaboration further. By implementing Cacco's data science techniques in loan decision-making and management support, they aim to foster a culture of data-driven economic growth within the region.
Insights from Leaders
The IT Consulting Team Leader at Hokuriku Bank, Suishi Ishida, expressed the importance of helping local businesses make data more accessible, effectively tackling management issues faster. Workshops designed to raise awareness about the significance of data utilization in DX will be part of this collaborative effort. He stated, "Through this partnership, we expect to contribute to the growth of many businesses."
Cacco’s Director Takeo Narita added, "Since our founding, we have supported various industries including manufacturing and retail by enhancing their data utilization capabilities. This partnership will allow us to help regional companies understand what data utilization means for them and to offer tailored services to meet those needs. Ultimately, our goal is to empower these businesses to harness data effectively and maximize their profits, making this partnership a crucial first step."
Cacco’s Data Science Services
Cacco offers a diverse array of data science services that address marketing challenges, boost operational productivity, and promote data usage in businesses. Leveraging AI and advanced statistical methods, they provide optimal solutions tailored to client needs. Notably, they have achieved remarkable results in manufacturing, securing cost reductions of up to 130 million yen annually through strategic production planning and minimizing sales losses due to stock outages. Cacco’s commitment to solving the data-related issues faced by a wide variety of organizations through personalized consulting is evident in their hands-on approach, ensuring businesses can effectively utilize data for growth.
For more detailed cases and insights, visit:
Cacco Case Studies
About the Companies
Hokuriku Bank
Founded in 1943, Hokuriku Bank is located in Toyama, Japan, and operates in the financial and insurance sectors. Their initiatives, particularly in cloud-based ERP services such as 'Hokuhoku Biz-Management,' are aimed at empowering local businesses.
Website:
Hokuriku Bank
Cacco
Established in 2011, Cacco focuses on providing SaaS-based algorithm solutions, including fraud detection, payment consulting, and data science services. Their mission is to transform the way companies tackle challenges using advanced technology, ensuring operational efficiency and robust security in online transactions.
Website:
Cacco