Realize Achieves Recognition as One of Japan's Top 100 Local Companies

Realize: Emerging as a Leading Local Business

Founded only 2.5 years ago, Realize has made a significant mark within the competitive landscape of Japanese small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Recently selected as one of the Top 100 Local Companies by the regional revitalization media outlet, Made In Local, this accolade highlights Realize's impressive growth trajectory and innovative business models. Led by Naoto Kimura in Hirosaki City, Aomori, the company is proving that fresh ideas and a strong commitment to quality can drive success even in challenging economic climates.

Background of the Recognition

As the backbone of Japan's economy, SMEs account for about 70% of the nation's total employment. Despite their vital role, they face numerous obstacles, including a weak yen, rising costs, and a structural labor shortage, according to the 2025 Small and Medium Enterprise White Paper. In light of these challenges, attention is increasingly directed toward companies that create new value at the local level and continue to expand.

Made In Local is a platform dedicated to spotlighting innovative businesses across Japan, selecting those that excel in technology, culture, and SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) initiatives. The initiative highlights 100 companies from each prefecture, and to date, has celebrated over 1,000 companies nationwide.

Why Realize Stood Out

Realize has been recognized for several key factors:

1. Rapid Growth: Established on the premise of distributing high-quality used cameras, the company has steadily gained support both domestically and internationally.

2. Unique Business Model: Realize combines its distribution operations with consulting services aimed at stabilizing and systematizing retail business ventures.

3. Scalable Support Capacity: Their approach includes comprehensive assistance in strategy development, product selection, purchasing decision-making, operational flow construction, and human resource training—enabling any business to achieve success with their sales model.

Realize has expanded to a team of 20 members within its short establishment period, embodying the vision of delivering value from local to global markets through a circular business model centered around used cameras and related devices. Their commitment to strict inspections, clear quality standards, and high transparency has established strong trust from both domestic and foreign clients, contributing to the formation of a reliable secondary market for high-quality goods.

Furthermore, Realize leverages its proven sales techniques to offer consulting services aimed at other businesses seeking to achieve stable growth in retail operations.

Representative's Statement

Shohei Naito, CEO of NSJAPAN, remarked, “This recognition serves as a significant encouragement for Realize. We will continue to embody our vision of bringing value from local areas to the world, focusing on sustainable and replicable business models. Our field-based expertise in the used camera sales sector, combined with our long-term perspectives on systematic and reproducible support, will help build an environment where businesses can grow together with confidence.”

Realize is dedicated to fostering collaborative partnerships, promising continuous support that empowers other enterprises and entrepreneurs to not only envision but realize their growth aspirations.

Company Overview

SC Capital Partners, founded by Seiya Kanno, is based in Chiyoda, Tokyo. The firm operates a matching platform that connects businesses with management talent, striving to create impactful connections in today’s dynamic market environment.