#Japan #Tokyo #Yamatane #T.M.L #Soft Steamer

Yamatane Corporation's Strategic Acquisition of T.M.L Shares

In a significant move signaling its commitment to sustainable development in agriculture, Yamatane Corporation, headquartered in Koto City, Tokyo, has announced the acquisition of a stake in T.M.L, located in Shinjuku City, Tokyo. This decision was made during a management conference held on September 26, 2025, and the shares transfer agreement was officially signed today, marking a new chapter in Yamatane's ongoing efforts to enhance its food production capabilities.

The Motivation Behind the Acquisition

Since its inception in 1924, Yamatane has prioritized the provision of safe, secure, and high-quality rice. The company's corporate message, “Supporting Continuity,” reflects its dedication to ensuring the sustainability of all stakeholders involved in its value chain. Yamatane aims to foster strong relationships with domestic producers and contribute to the advancement of agricultural practices. This aligns with the company’s sustainability policy, which emphasizes the importance of building lasting connections in local communities and agricultural landscapes.

With the launch of its medium-term management plan, the Yamatane 2028 Plan, the company seeks to expand its value chain, with a focus on upstream production and pursuing new customers down the line. This strategic initiative reinforces Yamatane’s commitment to sustainable and resilient agricultural practices.

T.M.L's Pioneering Technology

T.M.L specializes in the development and sale of cutting-edge food processing equipment known as the “Soft Steamer.” This innovative tool utilizes 100% humidity saturated steam and heat to prepare various ingredients, maximizing flavors through precise temperature control within a one-degree margin. This previously unattainable method for ingredient preparation has garnered several patents, affirming T.M.L's position at the forefront of culinary technology.

The Soft Steamer is already being utilized extensively across various sectors, including hotels, restaurants, traditional sweets shops, and bento specialty stores, showcasing its versatility and efficiency in the food industry.

Addressing Food Waste with Innovative Solutions

Yamatane's decision to acquire shares in T.M.L is driven by the potential to implement the Soft Steamer technology directly in agricultural production sites. This partnership aims to tackle the challenge of food waste, particularly by processing crops deemed unsellable due to strict quality standards or excess production. These crops can be treated with the Soft Steamer, frozen, and preserved, ultimately reducing food loss and associated disposal costs.

Furthermore, Yamatane plans to collaborate with its group company, Shokukai, which specializes in the wholesale of frozen foods. Together, they will develop and market new products utilizing the Soft Steamer technology, effectively expanding their presence in the food processing chain.

Company Overview of T.M.L

• - Name: T.M.L, Inc.
• - Headquarters: 1F Mochizuki Building, 80 Waseda-cho, Shinjuku City, Tokyo
• - CEO: Hiroo Yamakawa
• - Business Focus: Development, manufacturing, and sales of food processing equipment using Soft Steam technology, including technical consultation and collaboration on new food development.
• - Established: May 8, 2003
• - Capital: 73 million yen
• - Website: T.M.L Website

Share Acquisition Details

Before the acquisition, Yamatane held no shares in T.M.L, with a voting rights ratio of 0.0%. Following the acquisition of 1,007 shares, Yamatane now owns 51% of the voting rights, while CEO Yamakawa retains 49%.

Future Prospects

While this acquisition will take effect on October 8, 2025, the anticipated impact on Yamatane's consolidated results for the fiscal year ending March 2026 is expected to be minimal. This partnership is poised to pave the way for enhanced agricultural practices and operational efficiencies, thus supporting both the company and the broader community involved in food production.

Contact Information

For further inquiries regarding this acquisition, please contact the Yamatane Corporation Management Planning Department, Public Relations Division at 03-3820-1116 or via email at [email protected].