C.R.E.S. Establishes a New Era for Business Succession in Japan

A New Era of Business Succession in Japan

On October 14, 2025, C&R EVERLASTING STORY (C.R.E.S.) hosted its establishment anniversary party in Tokyo, bringing together over 60 executives from listed companies. This pivotal gathering centered on the theme of "business succession that embodies heartfelt connections," highlighting the urgent need for effective transition strategies as Japan faces a succession crisis. With approximately 1 million businesses lacking successors, the potential loss of employment and cultural heritage is significant.

During the event, distinguished business leaders shared their insights on the importance of maintaining the spirit and vision of original founders within business transfers. C.R.E.S. aims to facilitate a seamless transition by intertwining experienced executives with small and medium enterprises (SMEs), as well as startups.

The Mission of C.R.E.S.

C.R.E.S. is spearheading efforts to tackle Japan's pressing succession issues, having already successfully fused 16 companies within the C&R Group without altering their names or cultures. Notably, the firm boasts a powerful network of approximately 415,000 professionals across various sectors, including healthcare and law. By leveraging this expertise, C.R.E.S. seeks to connect experienced executives with SMEs that require guidance and support in navigating complex challenges.

At the core of its mission, C.R.E.S. aims to preserve the "soul" of businesses during transitions. This endeavor goes beyond mere ownership transfer; it is about cultivating and nurturing the values and identity of each company for future generations.

Future Initiatives

Anticipating future needs, C.R.E.S. will launch the C.R.E.S. PARTNERS MAGAZINE in July 2025, providing a space for business leaders to document and share their journey through the challenges of succession. Additionally, the TOP MANAGEMENT CLUB community is set to be established in December 2025. This platform will encourage collaboration among seasoned executives as they share their wealth of knowledge and experiences with one another.

In January 2026, C.R.E.S. will debut the C.R.E.S. Academy, which will offer practical courses tailored for the next generation of business leaders. These sessions will feature hands-on advice from seasoned professionals who have not only survived but thrived in similar challenges. Prospective leaders will hone their skills and prepare for successful transitions.

Comments from Leaders

C.R.E.S. Chairman, Yoshihiro Ikawa, emphasized the enormity of the succession crisis: "Many companies are disappearing due to a lack of successors, resulting in significant loss beyond mere numbers. We aim to transform this legacy into opportunities for growth and continuity."

Furthermore, C.R.E.S. President, Atsushi Yamamoto, reiterated the organization's dedication to future-proofing businesses. "With our three key services—consulting for business succession/M&A, strategy/leadership consulting, and a management academy—we aspire to secure a brighter tomorrow for enterprises facing closure."

Conclusion

The importance of effective business succession cannot be overstated; it shapes not just economic landscapes but also the very fabric of communities and histories. By cultivating a robust community of leaders and supporting a culture of collaboration, C.R.E.S. stands poised to revitalize Japan's business scene. The establishment of C.R.E.S. signifies a new chapter in business management, one where the legacies of founders are honored, and new paths are carved in the ever-evolving market landscape.

For more information on C.R.E.S. and their initiatives, visit C.R.E.S. Official Website. Join their discussions on YouTube at C.R.E.S. Channel.