#Japan #Tokyo #UAV Technology #Dynamic Map #Likano

Dynamic Map Platform Enhances Surveying Network with Likano Acquisition

Dynamic Map Platform, headquartered in Shibuya, Tokyo, has made significant strides in the surveying industry by officially acquiring all shares of Likano, a company renowned for its early adoption and practical deployment of surveying techniques using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This acquisition represents a strategic second phase in the company's M&A strategy aimed at constructing a robust surveying network in Japan.

Background and Objectives

The overarching vision of Dynamic Map Platform is to realize the concept of "Modeling the Earth" by tackling structural challenges within the surveying industry such as technology innovation, a shortage of successors, and the slow pace of industry restructuring. Targeting a major transformation, the company aims to facilitate the integration of various surveying, design, and construction consultancy firms across multiple regions. The recent acquisition follows the successful inclusion of Toyama's Nihonkai Survey and Design Co., further cementing the company's role in establishing a nationwide digital infrastructure.

Significance of the Acquisition

Likano excels in drone-based surveying and has developed systems dedicated to UAV-assisted surveying and point-cloud acquisition. The company has built a diverse portfolio of expertise in infrastructure inspection, disaster response, and public works, showcasing its capabilities during significant events such as the road subsidence incident in Yashio City, Saitama on January 28, 2025. By leveraging Likano's advanced technologies and operational know-how, Dynamic Map Platform aims to accelerate nationwide digital infrastructure initiatives while enhancing service delivery in disaster management and infrastructure maintenance. The funding for this acquisition was successfully secured through a loan from Yamagata Bank.

Following the acquisition, Likano's CEO, Noriyuki Taira, will step down but will remain valuable to the group as a technology advisor. Taira's extensive background in UAV utilization, particularly in drone surveying and spatial measurement, will significantly contribute to the group's efforts in bolstering technical capabilities and business value.

Meet Noriyuki Taira

Founded in 2006, Likano was established under the leadership of Noriyuki Taira, whose expertise centers on BIM/CIM-related services and UAV-enabled photogrammetry and point cloud analysis. He has played a pivotal role in the advancement of drone surveying technologies, holding patents related to aerial measurement and analysis techniques. His strategic contributions to Terra Drone during its formative years have paved the way for greater applicability of drone technologies in surveying and disaster response.

Voices from Leadership

Shuichi Yoshimura, CEO of Dynamic Map Platform: "Drone surveying is now widely adopted throughout the civil engineering sector, with Likano being one of the pioneers in this field. We are honored to welcome Likano into our group, where we believe their expertise and established client base will open new avenues for us as we strive to meet our customer expectations and create additional value."

Noriyuki Taira, Former CEO of Likano: "Joining Dynamic Map Platform is a significant leap for Likano. We are eager to apply our acquired skills and knowledge in areas like drone surveying and BIM/CIM towards the group’s national initiative for digital infrastructure development. I look forward to contributing as a technology advisor and furthering our joint goals of serving clients and the industry."

Looking Ahead

Dynamic Map Platform is committed to advancing the surveying industry's network while reinforcing digital technology's application in developing, maintaining, and enhancing social infrastructures across Japan. With the vision of "Modeling the Earth," the company aspires to lead innovation and collaboration across various sectors.

About Likano

Established: December 2006
Headquarters: Yamagata, Japan
Services: BIM/CIM, UAV-based surveying, ground-based laser measurements, and consultation for construction management technicians.
Website: likanos.com

About Dynamic Map Platform

Founded in June 2016 with backing from the Japanese government and major domestic car manufacturers, Dynamic Map Platform operates in over 26 countries, providing 3D data relevant for advanced automotive technologies, including self-driving vehicles and ADAS. Under the mission of "Modeling the Earth," it partners across industries to promote innovation through high-precision data solutions.
Headquarters: Shibuya, Tokyo
Website: dynamic-maps.co.jp
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