#Japan #Tokyo #Kobe University #MAREC #M&A Study

New Small Business M&A White Paper Unveiled

On May 18, 2026, the Small Business M&A Research and Education Center (MAREC) at Kobe University will officially release its latest publication, the "Small Business M&A White Paper <2026-27 Edition>". This important report is a collaborative effort with the Japan M&A Center Holdings, aiming to address current trends and challenges in small-scale mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in Japan.

Purpose of the Publication

These days, Japan's social and economic landscape is undergoing significant transformations, driven mainly by an aging population of small business owners. As the focus intensifies on sustaining productivity and promoting continuous regional economic growth, the relevance of small business M&A becomes even more pronounced. However, data regarding these transactions has been sparse, making it difficult to present a clear picture in practical terms or engage in meaningful discussions based on evidence. The latest white paper seeks to remediate this gap by consolidating data on small business M&A in Japan and outlining its realities.

In this updated edition, the authors have enriched the previous data set used in the "2024-25 Edition" with more recent insights (Chapter 3). Additionally, they have incorporated new analytical content, utilizing survey data from acquiring companies (Chapter 4). The white paper also explores several vital topics surrounding small business M&A, such as the existence of emotional pricing, management guarantees, the evolution and challenges within the brokerage industry, involvement of private equity funds, and pertinent policy measures (Chapter 5).

The diverse evidence presented in this book is intended to provide useful insights for addressing the issues faced by small businesses, the decline of local economies, and ultimately, the stagnation of the Japanese economy at large.

Book Summary

Title: Small Business M&A White Paper <2026-27 Edition>

• - Editor: MAREC (Small Business M&A Research and Education Center, Kobe University Graduate School of Business Administration)
• - Publisher: Central Economic Society
• - Price: ¥2,200 (including tax)
• - Details: Read More

Upcoming Symposium

On June 5, 2026, MAREC will host its 5th Annual Symposium focusing on “Current Status and Challenges of Small M&A – Evidence-Based Dialogue”. Attendees can anticipate presentations from public sector representatives, research updates from the white paper writing team, and an exploration of current trends in small M&A using private equity funds. The symposium welcomes students, researchers, business owners, and anyone involved in M&A activities.

Event Overview

Title: MAREC 5th Annual Symposium
Date and Time: June 5, 2026, from 15:00 to 18:30 (Doors open at 14:30)
Networking Session: 18:30 to 19:00 (for business card exchange)
Participation Fee: Free
Venue: 22nd floor of Tekko Building, Marunouchi 1-8-2, Chiyoda, Tokyo (2 minutes walk from JR Tokyo Station, Yaesu North Exit)
Note: The event will be hybrid, allowing online participation as well.

Organizer: The Small Business M&A Research and Education Center (Kobe University Graduate School of Business Administration)
Supported by: NPO Modern Management Research Institute (RIAM), and the General Incorporated Association of M&A Support Institutions.
Sponsored by: General Incorporated Association of M&A Research Society.

To register or to learn more about the event, click here. Note that registration will close once capacity is reached, and the agenda may change without prior notice.

About MAREC

To resolve issues faced by small enterprises, effective mechanisms need to be in place not only for family business succession but also to support the smooth transition to third-party ownership. It's essential to encourage existing businesses to thrive, alongside the creation of innovative ventures that could serve as new business pillars. M&A is considered a key approach to sustain the existence and continuous growth of small companies. Since September 2022, MAREC has been facilitating research and education through a collaborative agreement with the Kobe University Graduate School of Business Administration, underlining the vital role of academia and industry in this field.

About Japan M&A Center Holdings

• - Company Name: Japan M&A Center Holdings, Inc.
• - Headquarters: 24th Floor, Tekko Building, Marunouchi 1-8-2, Chiyoda, Tokyo
• - Business Focus: Management oversight of group companies.
• - Established: April 1991
• - Locations: Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Sapporo, Okinawa, Singapore, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand (includes branches and consolidated subsidiaries of Japan M&A Center).

For press inquiries regarding this announcement, please contact:
Japan M&A Center Holdings Public Relations Department at [email protected].