Ichikara Lab Holds Final Presentation for Collaborative Project of Three Kansai Universities

Final Presentation of Ichikara Lab's Joint Project with Three Kansai Universities

On July 18, 2025, Ichikara Lab, a corporate venture by Canon Marketing Japan, hosted the final presentation of its joint project involving three universities in the Kansai region: Kansai University, Ritsumeikan University, and Kinki University. The presentation took place at the KANDAI Me RISE campus at Kansai University, showcasing innovative print experiences designed by students from these institutions.

Project Background

Over the past few years, the way we perceive and utilize prints has undergone significant changes due to digital advancements. Ichikara Lab recognized that for the younger generation, who have grown up in a digital era, print media offers a unique tactile experience. Thus, Ichikara Lab initiated this collaborative project on May 23, 2025, aiming to merge digital and analog realms and create fresh value in printing.

Group Contributions

Thirteen students, grouped by their respective universities, tackled the challenge of creating new value by exploring the fusion of digital and analog methods in printing.

Kansai University

The group from Kansai University proposed the idea of original stickers that could only be created at tourist spots and event venues using mini photo printers. This service allows users to capture photos and link them with a smartphone app, where they can customize backgrounds into dot-style or retro designs to print unique stickers. They also included a “memory notebook” at the print booths for visitors to share their experiences and feelings, thus enhancing personal interactions through analog means.

Ritsumeikan University

Ritsumeikan University’s group focused on the current trend of ‘pilgrimages’ to locations featured in anime, manga, and films. They envisioned an idea where fans could create their own unique ‘pilgrimage notebooks’ by pasting printed sheets from their visits. By checking in via an app, fans could earn exclusive content, such as AR photo frames featuring their favorite characters, thereby enhancing their experience and fostering longer enjoyment of their fan journey.

Kinki University

The Kinki University group introduced the idea of providing immersive printing experiences at special venues, like live houses. They aimed to extend the value of extraordinary moments by allowing photos taken at these events to be printed and kept close at hand, integrating the concept of keeping memories ‘close by’ with a subscription model for their service.

Student Feedback

Participants expressed their gratitude for the unique opportunity to collaborate across universities, reflecting on how the experience enhanced their creative skills and understanding of marketing in an analog-digital context. Many noted the rewarding challenges they encountered in navigating concepts like merging digital and analog experiences and how it encouraged them to think beyond traditional consumer habits.

Future Plans

Ichikara Lab plans to continue collaborating with students to craft new experiences and insights through open innovation programs, transforming these projects into exciting future initiatives.

For more information about Ichikara Lab and their open innovation programs, visit Ichikara Lab’s Website.

Conclusion

Through its collaboration with Kansai universities, Ichikara Lab aims to redefine the printing experience, turning traditional concepts upside down, and fostering engagement among younger individuals. This forward-thinking approach not only reflects the evolving landscape of printing but also the powerful creativity of the students involved.