#Japan #Shizuoka #Yamashita #Wellfan #Care Products

Yamashita and Wellfan: A New Era in Care Products in China

In a strategic move to tap into the growing care product market in China, Yamashita Co., a leading Japanese company in care equipment rental and sales, has partnered with Wellfan, a significant player in domestic wholesale of care supplies. The duo has established a new subsidiary, "Yamashita Weirakuho (Shanghai) Industrial Development Co., Ltd.," which aims to start operations by October 2025.

Background of the Partnership

Yamashita, based in Shizuoka Prefecture, has nearly 40 years of expertise in the care industry, leveraging knowledge from Japan's aging population. They previously set up "Yamashita Fukushi (Shanghai) Health Management Co., Ltd." in 2020, marking their entry into the Chinese market. This venture focused on care product rental, sales, and home modification services for seniors, with significant participation in exhibitions like the Tianjin rental system trials to gauge market needs.

On the other hand, Wellfan, established in 1982, transitioned from elderly clothing manufacturing to become Japan's largest domestic wholesaler of care and welfare equipment, driven largely by the aging care insurance system that saw swift expansion since 1997. Their vast range of products, from wheelchairs to daily living aids, positions them as a key player in the industry.

Addressing the Rising Demand in China

China is experiencing a rapid increase in demand for home care services due to its aging population. Policies such as the one-child policy have exacerbated this trend, with approximately 15% of China's population being 65 years or older by 2022, and this is particularly pronounced in metropolitan areas like Shanghai, where this figure rises to 28%. By 2025, the combined market for rehabilitation products and food aimed at the elderly is expected to reach a staggering 1.8 trillion Yuan (about 36 trillion yen).

Recognizing this, the Chinese government has elevated the challenge of an aging society to a national strategy. They plan to enhance initiatives supporting the purchase and rental of care products, including a subsidies program that started providing 30% reimbursement to consumers purchasing care products and home modifications since January 2025.

The Venture's Future Plans

This joint venture aims to combine Yamashita's deep understanding of Japanese care products with Wellfan's established connections with domestic manufacturers. The goal is to popularize Japanese-made care supplies throughout China, particularly with targeted offerings for rehabilitation services.

Initially, the product lineup will focus on items that facilitate mobility and daily activities, including care shoes, canes, and walkers, as seen during their collaboration at "CHINA AID 2025". They plan to extend their distribution channels beyond existing rental service consumers to care facilities, medical institutions, and e-commerce platforms. Plans for brick-and-mortar stores are also in the works.

By gradually expanding their product offerings and pushing towards a sales target of 3 billion yen by 2030, the new joint venture seeks to leverage their combined strengths effectively.

Overview of the New Company

• - Name: Yamashita Weirakuho (Shanghai) Industrial Development Co., Ltd. (tentative)
• - Location: Putuo District, Shanghai (tentative)
• - Representative: Chairman Shinn Nagai
• - Business Focus: Import and export sales of care products and rehabilitation equipment
• - Joint Venture Start: By October 2025
• - Investment Ratio: Yamashita Care holds 51%, while Wellfan owns 49%.

Conclusion

The establishment of this joint venture is not just a business expansion for Yamashita and Wellfan; it signifies a vital step toward meeting the growing needs of China's senior population. By bringing effective Japanese care solutions to the Chinese market, they are set to significantly impact and improve the quality of life for many elderly individuals in the country.

For more details about Yamashita, visit their corporate website: Yamashita Corporate Site and for Wellfan, check out: Wellfan Corporate Site.