Revolutionizing Logistics: How a Startup is Reshaping Industry Structures

Stopping the Logistics Crisis

Japan's logistics infrastructure is currently facing a silent crisis, marked by rising component costs, the closure of maintenance facilities, and a severe labor shortage. When trucks, buses, and construction machinery come to a halt, everyday life screeches to a halt as well.

In response to this pressing issue, NextLight Co., Ltd., an environmental venture based in Okayama and led by CEO Seima Kurokawa, is making strides to reverse the current industrial structure. They are promoting a circular economy model known as the GX Model, aiming to maximize resource recovery and minimize waste. Their mantra is simple: "Loss occurs when we waste resources, and profits arise when we recover them."

A Profitable Shift Towards Decarbonization

NextLight specializes in creating an infrastructure that focuses on resource recovery and the effective use of data, centered around diesel particulate filter (DPF) purification systems. It offers remanufactured parts with performance equal to new products at 30-60% lower costs.

Their technology provides clear visibility into carbon dioxide (CO₂) reduction impacts, and employs predictive maintenance to maximize vehicle uptime. Interestingly, as CO₂ emissions decrease, businesses can reap greater profits, transforming decarbonization from a mere obligation into a starting point for revenue generation.

Impressive Results in Logistics

As evidenced by actual performance metrics from logistics partners:

- Reduction in component costs by 36%
- 57% decrease in DPF-related issues
- Significant cuts in downtime

These are not just lofty goals; they are tangible results driven by numbers, perfectly illustrating how to avert the crisis in the logistics sector.

The Drivers Behind Growth

Three critical drivers are converging to necessitate this growth:
1. Rising resource costs: The margins on circular economy solutions are expanding, making them more economically viable.
2. Strengthened GX regulations: Transitioning from mandatory compliance to profit-centric solutions.
3. Labor shortages: The traditional model of new and replacement parts is unsustainable.

Given the rapid market expansion, a circular model presents a viable solution to counteract these challenges.

Plans for Nationwide Expansion

NextLight aims to enhance its infrastructure across Japan, anticipating sales of 2 billion yen for this fiscal year. They are currently collaborating with over 4,000 companies nationwide and have generated a cumulative circular economy value of approximately 4 billion yen. Their efforts have already led to CO₂ reductions exceeding 2,000 tons, with 1,783 tons achieved to date.

Their business operates from three locations: Okayama, Tokyo, and Saitama. By expanding resources and supply chains, the value generated through these circular methods is set to multiply exponentially.

Technology Supporting Continuous Logistics

NextLight employs innovative technologies, utilizing X-ray and spectral analysis for scientific remanufacturing. They are developing predictive maintenance models to detect potential failures and are constructing a streamlining supply chain capable of operating within 24 hours, with plans for additional facilities in Tokyo and Saitama by 2025.

The journey towards an uninterrupted logistics future is firmly supported by this cutting-edge technology.

Regional Recognition for Innovation

The GX project originating from the local area is beginning to garner significant acclaim. For instance, in 2025, they were chosen as one of the "Best 100 Ventures" and received the Okayama Award for their contributions. Additionally, they have been recognized as a great place to work.

This recognition isn't merely a testament to their ambition but rather a validation of their successful implementation of innovative ideas.

Vision for the Future

CEO Seima Kurokawa sums up their mission: “If logistics stops, life stops. We are committed to restoring value to resources that are headed toward disposal to create a robust industry infrastructure that won’t halt. Our goal is to implement this cycle across Japan and eventually Asia.”

Company Overview

- Company Name: NextLight Co., Ltd. (次の灯株式会社)
- Headquarters: 1448-1 Makabe, Soja City, Okayama, Japan
- Tokyo Office: 5F 3rd Koike Building, 1-1-11 Kitashinagawa, Shinagawa, Tokyo, Japan
- Established: July 2, 2018
- Business Focus: Automotive parts recycling and environmental technology development
- Brand Statement: "Circling, Connecting, Good for the Earth"
- Website: NextLight Official Site