A New Era in Pathology: Sakura Finetek and Hamamatsu Photonics Join Forces
In a groundbreaking collaboration announced on March 20, 2026, Sakura Finetek Global, a global leader in automated tissue and slide preparation, has partnered with Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., renowned for its advanced imaging technologies. This strategic alliance aims to revolutionize the way pathology is conducted, focusing on ensuring the production of consistent, scan-ready slides and crystal-clear digital images that bolster clinical decision-making—all aimed at enhancing patient care.
Strengthening Pathology Efficiency
The joint effort between Sakura Finetek and Hamamatsu is firmly rooted in a shared mission to eliminate variability and reduce the need for reworking within pathology labs. By synchronizing high-quality slide preparation with reliable digital imaging, the two companies are redefining the workflow, allowing pathology teams to seamlessly transition from biopsy to diagnosis.
Kam Patel, President of Sakura Finetek USA, emphasizes this goal: “Consistency in every slide, clarity in every image, trust in every decision—this is not just a slogan but a necessity for laboratories today. Our collaboration with Hamamatsu strengthens the connection between slide preparation and digital review, enabling swift and confident diagnostic processes.”
Similarly, Naofumi Toriyama, Managing Executive Officer at Hamamatsu, stresses the importance of solid slide technology in digital pathology. He believes that with their NanoZoomer systems, which produce high-quality whole slide images, “the partnership reinforces a unified workflow, making sure labs can dedicate their efforts to what truly matters—their patients.”
Commitment to Education and Workflow Enhancement
The partnership also aims to support laboratories in aligning their workflows between slide preparation and digital scanning. This not only minimizes the chances of rework and delays but also fosters a more efficient end-to-end laboratory process.
Together, they will engage with customers to design streamlined workflows, guiding them from histology through to digital reviews. Educational resources sharing best practices for producing scan-ready slides and ensuring dependable whole slide imaging will also be available, further establishing their commitment to continuous improvement in pathology practices.
As Erico von Bueren, Sr. Director of Marketing and Strategy at Sakura Finetek USA, notes, “Pathology is intricately connected. Every link is crucial. Ensuring that slide preparation and imaging are in sync empowers laboratories to confidently progress from specimen analysis to insights.”
Unveiling the Partnership at USCAP 2026
This well-thought-out collaboration will be formally introduced at the USCAP 2026 conference in San Antonio, TX, showcasing how the confluence of innovation, engineering excellence, and customer-focused solutions can dramatically improve the pathology workflow and consequently enhance patient care.
About the Companies
Sakura Finetek USA has established a reputation for continuous innovation in anatomic pathology, offering integrated solutions that prioritize quality and customer care. Their commitment to end-to-end automation has made them a front-runner in the industry, providing automated histopathology instruments and consumables that improve efficiency and standardize results.
On the other hand,
Hamamatsu Photonics has been a leader in the field of photonics devices for over two decades, specializing in advanced imaging detectors. Their NanoZoomer series has set the standard in whole slide imaging technology, making them a vital player in pathology research.
For additional details on products and advancements from Sakura Finetek, visit
www.sakuraus.com. For updates on Hamamatsu’s innovations, head to
www.nanozoomer.com.
This partnership marks a significant step forward in the vitality of pathology services and the enhancement of patient care worldwide, ensuring that both companies remain at the forefront of access to advanced diagnostics and patient-focused solutions.