Timed to Thrive: Komatsu's New Partnership for Economic Revitalization

The New Era of Work in Komatsu

In a significant move for economic activation, Timed Co., Ltd., the company behind the flexible work service "Timed," has entered into a collaboration agreement with Komatsu City and the Komatsu Chamber of Commerce. Their goal is to revitalize the local economy through the establishment of a diverse workforce. This partnership marks the first collaboration between a city and a chamber of commerce in Ishikawa Prefecture, showcasing a pioneering effort to address employment challenges in the area.

Located in the central part of the Kaga Plain in southwestern Ishikawa Prefecture, Komatsu City serves as a key hub for the region. This vibrant city is known for its rich cultural heritage, particularly its tradition of Kabuki, a traditional form of Japanese theater. The children's performances of Hikiyama Kids Kabuki have become a cherished local custom, showcasing the town's artistic spirit. Additionally, the city offers stunning natural beauty, such as the majestic Mount Hakusan and the picturesque Nata-dera temple, renowned for its seasonal foliage.

Despite its cultural richness, Komatsu faces a pressing issue of labor shortages due to an aging population and declining birth rates. The city's population has remained around 100,000 for the past fifty years. However, projections indicate a decline to approximately 93,500 by 2040 and 78,000 by 2060. This population shift has also altered the age demographics, as the proportion of individuals under 15 has halved over the past four decades, while those aged 65 and over now constitute nearly 30% of the total population.

The collaboration agreement aims to tackle these employment issues head-on. By leveraging Timed’s platform, the partnership seeks to introduce flexible working arrangements through what is referred to as "Spot Work." This approach encourages local businesses to improve operational efficiency while facilitating matching support for labor acquisition. It will additionally promote diverse ways of working by utilizing "gap-time" opportunities—a new concept that allows individuals to work in a manner that fits their lifestyle.

Through this initiative, Timed remains committed to its mission of "creating infrastructure that expands life’s possibilities through work." By focusing on economic revitalization in Komatsu and addressing local challenges, Timed is dedicated to contributing positively to the community.

Details of the Initiative

The collaboration agreement entails a tripartite effort between Timed, Komatsu City, and the Komatsu Chamber of Commerce, providing various support services to local businesses and workers. Specific actions include:

- Support for Businesses: Hosting workshops aimed at introducing the "Spot Work" system to local enterprises.
- Encouragement of potential labor: Activating local human resources by emphasizing the benefits of working flexibly at preferred locations and times.
- Promotion of diverse working styles to citizens: Raising awareness among the public about alternative employment methods.

Timed's Collaboration with Local Governments

To date, Timed has formed collaboration agreements with 66 local governments across 33 prefectures. The partnership with Komatsu City and the Komatsu Chamber of Commerce represents the company's 67th collaboration, reflecting its extensive efforts to foster local workforce development.

For more information on past collaborations with municipalities, visit Timed’s Local Government Partnerships.

Company Overview

- Founded: August 2017
- CEO: Rei Ogawa
- Location: 35th Floor, Shiodome City Center, 1-5-2 Higashi-Shinbashi, Minato, Tokyo
- Stock Code: 215A
- Website: Timed Corporation
- Timed Lab: Timed Lab
- Spot Work Research Institute: Spot Work Research Institute