#Japan #Tokyo #Sketch #UV Shield

From Asakusabashi to the World: Sketch's Leap into International Markets

In the heart of Taito City, Tokyo, emerges a company dedicated to showcasing the brilliance of Japanese innovation on a global scale. Unity Service Co., Ltd. has adopted a mission to bridge the gap between exceptional homegrown technologies and their international audiences. Among these shining stars in Japan's tech landscape is Sketch, a firm specializing in cutting-edge nanotechnology coatings. Recently, Sketch made headlines with the launch of its latest product, the UV Shield PU—a clear, transparent coating designed to safeguard surfaces from harmful UV rays. This innovative solution simplifies application while enhancing the longevity of various materials worldwide.

Innovating with Purpose

The UV Shield PU is a testament to Sketch's commitment to addressing environmental challenges. The company has actively engaged in the window coating sector for years, capturing a remarkable 80% of the market in Japan. With successful applications in more than 40 countries and over 1.4 million square meters of product installed globally, Sketch has honed its expertise in UV protection. Ryotaro Yamagishi from Sketch Business Management describes the UV Shield PU as an evolution in their product line, combining practical application and advanced materials science.

Simplifying Application

What sets the UV Shield PU apart from traditional coatings? For starters, it requires no sophisticated machinery or heavy equipment.
You simply clean the surface, apply a primer, mix the two components, and roll the coating on—making it accessible for widespread use. According to Yamagishi, the aliphatic polyurea used in this coating has proven to resist UV rays for over 15 years, while keeping the base surface intact and original in appearance. This adaptability translates well for its target audience in the U.S., particularly for multi-location brands and retail chains eager to maintain a consistent brand image across facilities.

Addressing the Market Needs

When it comes to protecting signage and exterior surfaces, the UV Shield PU offers a significant advantage. Yamagishi highlighted the common lifespan of unprotected signage, which typically ranges between three to seven years depending on geographic factors like UV intensity and altitude. In contrast, from the experience gained through previous products, sketches proved that their coatings could substantially extend this lifespan.

Competing in a Crowded Landscape

Amidst various alternatives available in the market, such as urethanes, silicones, and fluoropolymers, Sketch's UV Shield PU stands out. Many existing high-performance coatings succumb to chalking and fading after a few years. Yamagishi’s team aims not only to shield surfaces but also actively restore colors. In demonstration applications, they saw coated surfaces regain their vibrancy compared to their non-coated counterparts.

A Clear Path Forward

Since its introduction, Sketch has witnessed growing demand within the retail sector for the UV Shield PU, especially for signage used by chain stores and restaurants. This clear coating is versatile enough for various materials, from wood to metal, ensuring that aesthetics remain uncompromised while achieving crucial UV protection.

In a world increasingly saturated with complex technological solutions, Sketch adheres to a straightforward philosophy of “high-tech product, low-tech application.” This philosophy empowers even those with limited resources to adopt effective UV protection measures easily. Furthermore, it illustrates their intent to make advanced technology accessible worldwide, regardless of the restrictions imposed by heavy equipment.

Looking to the Future

In a broad context, Sketch's vision extends beyond merely protecting products; it aims to share Japan's innovative spirit globally, building an eco-friendly future through advanced technologies. Stepping across the boundaries of nations, the UV Shield PU is a reflection of this ambition—catering to both current needs and future aspirations.

With its easy application and impressive longevity, the UV Shield PU is positioned not just as a product, but as a solution for those looking to maintain the integrity and appearance of outdoor surfaces and signage creatively. With this bold move into international markets, Sketch is undoubtedly setting a standard for excellence in nano-coating technology.

For further insights and product inquiries, visit Sketch's official website.