Japanese remanufacturer KTK Inc. thrives by diversifying into IT solutions and sustainability.
The Japanese office supplies industry is evolving rapidly, with businesses diversifying to meet shifting market demands. While the country’s major printer OEMs, such as Canon, Epson, and OKI, are well known globally, the role of third-party manufacturers often goes unnoticed. Koichi Yoshizuka, owner of QRIE Ltd., shares his perspective on one such company: KTK Inc., a publicly listed Japanese remanufacturer that has successfully expanded beyond its traditional business.
Founded in 1971 and headquartered in Nagoya, KTK has built a strong presence in Japan’s aftermarket sector. With a capital of ¥294.67 million (€2.3 million / $2.5 million), the company employs 175 people and serves 15,000 businesses through a direct-sales model, operating 18 sales offices, two production sites, and two logistics centres.
Financial results for the fiscal year ending August 2024 illustrate KTK’s transformation. Revenue reached ¥18.1 billion (€141 million / $152 million), with IT solutions now accounting for 20.7% of sales—up from 16.9% in 2022. The segment’s revenue grew from ¥2.9 billion (€22.6 million / $24.4 million) to ¥3.7 billion (€28.9 million / $31.3 million), while the core supplies business remains a strong foundation, representing 79.3% of turnover.
Measured by earnings per employee, KTK stands out. Each of its 175 employees contributes an average of ¥103.4 million (€805,700 / $868,600) in revenue. This is a significant benchmark when compared to major industry players such as HP Inc., where revenue per employee is approximately $923,400. While HP’s scale is far greater, KTK’s numbers indicate a high level of operational efficiency for a smaller, more specialised business.
The company has embraced digital initiatives, launching the YORIDORI e-commerce platform and acquiring Tokai Sakurai to expand into scanning services. These moves support its corporate vision, Change the Office Mirai, promoting sustainable and efficient workspaces.
KTK’s president, Hideo Aoyama, a Keio University graduate, has balanced the firm’s legacy toner business with investments in IT services, sustainability, and digital transformation. Under his leadership, KTK has positioned itself as a stable yet forward-thinking business, attracting investor interest through its ESG commitments and its Sustainable Partner Programme.
Koichi Yoshizuka highlights KTK as an example of how Japanese remanufacturers are adapting to shifting market dynamics. While Japan’s third-party sector often receives less global attention, companies like KTK demonstrate the industry’s potential to innovate and thrive.
