J-Star

J-Star Co. is a private equity investment firm based in Tokyo, Japan, established in 2006. The company specializes in providing investment and management support, leveraging its extensive experience in enhancing the value of small and medium-sized enterprises. J-Star focuses on a diverse range of sectors, including healthcare, business outsourcing, consumer products and services, information technology, manufacturing, media, and retail. It offers tailored solutions to address various challenges faced by companies, management teams, and shareholders, including business restructuring, mergers and acquisitions strategies, and international market development.

Satoru Arakawa

Partner

Gregory R. Hara

Director and President

Kenichi Harada

Managing Partner, Founding Member and Investment Committee Member

Kenichi Ishikawa

Principal

Masayoshi Nakajima

Principal

Kazumasa Ohara

Partner, Value Creation

Hideaki Sakurai

Partner

Yutaka Tozaki

Investment Partner

Tatsuya Yumoto

Partner

Zhao Huan

Investment Principal

50 past transactions

Toy Factory

Private Equity Round in 2022
Toy Factory is a manufacturer specializing in the design, development, and production of special vehicles, including camper cars tailored for government offices and medical institutions. The company also focuses on producing vehicles for the disabled, as well as creating automobile interiors and exteriors for camping vehicles. By providing innovative solutions, Toy Factory caters to a diverse range of clients, including broadcasting stations and welfare organizations, emphasizing their commitment to enhancing mobility and accessibility through specialized automotive products.

Shinseiki Trading

Private Equity Round in 2022
Shinseiki Trading handles Chinese eel kabayaki to customers.

Score Japan

Private Equity Round in 2022
Score Japan Group is an international courier and transportation service that specializes in air cargo transportation. The company operates in Japan, China, Thailand, and Vietnam, offering clients efficient and cost-effective door-to-door delivery solutions. By focusing on quick transit times and competitive pricing, Score Japan aims to meet the logistics needs of businesses engaged in international trade.

Yachiyo Care Support

Private Equity Round in 2021
Yachiyo Care Support specializes in the rental of welfare equipment and the sale of various care and rehabilitation products. The company provides essential items for home care, including beds, wheelchairs, and mobility aids, as well as equipment related to bathing, walking, and excretion. In addition to its rental and sales services, Yachiyo Care Support offers home renovation services tailored for the elderly, ensuring that living spaces are safer and more accessible. The company also provides disinfection services for medical equipment, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining high hygiene standards in care environments.

AKI-JAPAN

Private Equity Round in 2021
AKI-JAPAN engages in civil engineering and construction services.

Genex

Private Equity Round in 2020
Genex operates as a specialized wholesaler of generic drugs. It delivers generic pharmaceutical products to medical institutions all over Japan from three distribution centers in Nagoya, Sapporo, and Fukuoka.

Shirayuki Fukin

Acquisition in 2020
Shirayuki Fukin manufactures kitchen cloth, handkerchief, tenugui, bath towel, homewear and other acessories.

Dainichi

Acquisition in 2020
Dainichi Corporation is a company based in Uwajima, Japan, that specializes in the development and sale of fish feeds and aquaculture equipment for aquaculture companies. Founded in 1982, Dainichi offers a variety of products, including moist and dry fish feeds, fish meal, and fish oil. The company also provides essential aquaculture materials, such as plastic sea cages, steel wire netting, polythene netting, UV-cut sheets, and floats. In addition to its product offerings, Dainichi engages in aquaculture consulting services and seafood logistics. Initially established as a feed business, Dainichi later expanded into the fishery sector, focusing on farmed species like red sea bream and yellowtail. The company has additional offices in Wakayama, Japan, and California, United States, enhancing its presence in the aquaculture industry.

Sincere

Acquisition in 2020
Sincere is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in the management of industrial and medical waste. It offers a range of services including resource cycle operations, recycling of waste materials, and waste disposal. The company focuses on improving environmental impact and providing building maintenance services, thereby addressing the environmental needs of its customers. Through its operations, Sincere plays a crucial role in promoting sustainability and responsible waste management in various industries.

Hot Palette

Private Equity Round in 2020
Hot Palette engages in the direct management and franchise development of Pepper Lunch stores as the main business.

Pepper Lunch

Acquisition in 2020
Pepper Lunch operates a quick-service model where selected steak meat is cooked in front of customers.

N Holdings

Private Equity Round in 2020
N Holdings operates as a holding company that focuses on acquiring businesses within the information technology sector. By serving as an acquisition platform, it seeks to identify and integrate companies that complement its strategic objectives in the IT industry. Through these acquisitions, N Holdings aims to enhance its portfolio and leverage synergies among its acquired entities to drive growth and innovation in the technology landscape.

GINO

Acquisition in 2020
Gino, Inc. is a company based in Tokyo, Japan, that operates an online job search and learning platform specifically designed for IT engineers. Launched in 2012, its platform, Paiza, allows job seekers to connect with potential employers without the need for traditional document screening. Users can take online coding tests to demonstrate their skills, facilitating direct interviews with recruiting companies. Gino focuses on streamlining the hiring process for IT professionals in Japan.

Paiza

Private Equity Round in 2020
Paiza, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company that offers an online job matching service tailored for software engineers. The platform connects IT professionals with employment opportunities while facilitating skill development through integrated functions such as programming skill learning, proficiency assessments, and detailed position information. By allowing employers to evaluate candidates based on their actual coding work, Paiza enhances the job search experience for both job seekers and employers. Additionally, the company provides a web-based online coding environment that supports over 20 programming languages, further supporting engineers in honing their skills.

1K

Acquisition in 2019
1K Inc. is a company based in Osaka, Japan, that specializes in web and application design and development. Established in December 2010, 1K offers a platform focused on educating users about various topics, including fashion, interior design, household goods, and hairstyles. The company operates as a subsidiary of Periplus Co., Ltd.

Crafta

Acquisition in 2019
Crafta is an internet company based in Tokyo, Japan, specializing in behavior analysis. It provides a range of services that include behavior analysis, media management infrastructure, and advisory services focused on departmental relationships and business relations. By leveraging its expertise, Crafta aims to assist clients in understanding and improving their interactions and strategies within various business contexts.

Nakai Industry Group

Private Equity Round in 2019
Nakai Industry Group is a manufacturer of vacuum deposition and coating. They provide products that include those for the chemical industry and offer surface protection, industrial shielding, and building materials.

New Japan Development

Private Equity Round in 2019
New Japan Development focuses on creating environmental businesses that play a crucial role in industrial growth and improving quality of life. The company addresses various environmental challenges by providing comprehensive waste treatment services aimed at minimizing the environmental impact of waste. Its offerings include incineration and waste management, specialized disposal of controlled industrial waste, material recycling, and thermal recycling. Through these services, New Japan Development effectively detoxifies waste and reduces its volume using methods that are designed to lessen environmental burdens, thereby catering to the evolving needs of society.

Mattrz

Private Equity Round in 2019
Mattrz is a marketing technology firm focused on enhancing client engagement through effective audience connection. The company offers a range of services that include a conversion rate optimization platform, search engine optimization, user interface and user experience advisory, as well as website development and operation. By leveraging its digital technology, Mattrz aims to help businesses create impactful content that raises brand awareness, improves search visibility, and facilitates communication with existing users while attracting new audiences. The firm's expertise in real-time site optimization allows for a seamless user experience.

Tokyo Onkyo

Private Equity Round in 2019
Tokyo Onkyo designs and manufactures various audio products. The company sells earphones, headphones, and other audio accessories.

Wego

Acquisition in 2018
Wego is a Tokyo-based fashion retailer that operates 185 stores across Japan, specializing in clothing and accessories for men and women. The company focuses on designing and rebranding second-hand clothing to create modern street fashion looks, offering customers affordable and hybrid-style apparel. In addition to its physical locations, Wego also maintains an online store, further expanding its reach within the fashion market.

Honest Co.,Ltd.

Acquisition in 2018
Honest Co., Ltd. is an automobile components manufacturer based in Yoshikawa City, Japan. Founded in 1993, the company specializes in producing a wide range of products essential for vehicle functionality, including drive shafts, alternators, motors, engine control units, fuel pumps, fuel injectors, and turbochargers. Additionally, Honest produces components such as radiators, condensers, power window motors, compressors, automatic transmissions, O2 sensors, and ignition coils. The firm is dedicated to delivering quality parts that support the automotive industry.

C.R.E.A.M

Acquisition in 2018
C.R.E.A.M Co., Ltd. is a Tokyo-based company that operates an apparel e-commerce platform, having been established in 2005. As a subsidiary of JC Holdings Co., Ltd. since May 2018, C.R.E.A.M focuses on delivering a diverse range of clothing options through its online platform. The company offers four main product categories: women’s party dresses, yukata, suits, and Santa costumes, catering to various occasions. C.R.E.A.M distinguishes itself through its strong design capabilities that reflect customer preferences and meticulous site management, allowing for a steady growth trajectory in the competitive e-commerce landscape.

Section Eight

Private Equity Round in 2018
Section Eight Co., Ltd, founded in 2008 and based in Tokyo, Japan, operates a diverse portfolio of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. The company focuses on providing leisure entertainment and creating memorable experiences for its customers, particularly couples and groups. By offering a multi-cuisine menu and a unique ambiance, Section Eight aims to add emotional value and excitement to the dining and nightlife experience. In addition to its food and beverage operations, the company is also expanding into the IT sector and exploring opportunities in the marital business, demonstrating a commitment to innovation and growth across various industries.

Sanwa Service

Private Equity Round in 2018
Sanwa Service is an automotive service provider based in Nagoya, Japan, specializing in the sale of new and used cars. In addition to vehicle sales, the company offers a comprehensive range of services, including maintenance, repair, and the sale of automotive supplies and accessories. By proposing insurance options for vehicles, Sanwa Service aims to enhance the longevity and performance of cars for its clients.

Harita Metal

Private Equity Round in 2017
Harita Metal Co., Ltd., based in Takaoka, Japan, specializes in the recycling of metal waste, focusing on iron and non-ferrous metals. Established in 1960 and originally known as Harita Trading, the company changed its name in 1975. Harita Metal collects, transports, and processes industrial waste, offering services that include the recycling of automobiles, motorcycles, and small electrical and electronic equipment. It operates facilities for shredding, sorting, and separating materials, and it also engages in the sale of used auto parts. The company has additional offices located in Imizu, Ishikawa, Nanto-shi, and Toyama, Japan.

Yokoi Manufacturing

Private Equity Round in 2017
Yokoi Manufacturing Ltd. specializes in the production of fire-fighting equipment, offering a range of products designed to enhance fire safety. The company manufactures essential items such as hose cabinets, sprinklers, fire extinguisher cabinets, hydrants, and hoses specifically for fire brigades. Established in 1958 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, Yokoi has expanded its presence with additional offices in major cities including Sapporo, Niigata, Sendai, Kanagawa, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, and Osaka. In addition to its manufacturing capabilities, the company provides automatic monitoring systems and various components like valves and nozzles, contributing to comprehensive fire prevention and response solutions. As of January 2021, Yokoi operates as a subsidiary of HATSUTA SEISAKUSHO Co., Ltd.

Echigoya

Private Equity Round in 2017
Echigoya specializes in serving set lunches that include charcoal-grilled dried fish.

Itty

Private Equity Round in 2017
ITTY, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company founded in 2009 that specializes in the creation and distribution of health and beauty products. The company offers a range of cosmetics and health-related items through its online store, catering directly to consumers. In addition to its retail operations, ITTY also engages in wholesale distribution, supplying its products to various retailers. The company provides product planning services, which include market research and branding, to enhance its offerings in the health and beauty sector.

Sun Smile

Acquisition in 2017
Sun Smile Inc. is a manufacturer of cosmetic and personal care products aimed primarily at young women. Established in 1997 and headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, the company produces its flagship brand, Pure Smile, which includes a range of skincare and beauty items. In addition to its own branded products, Sun Smile also engages in the wholesale distribution of imported bags, accessories, cosmetics, and sundries. The company focuses on providing customers with affordable products that promote spa-like care for their skin.

JC Holdings

Private Equity Round in 2017
JC Holdings operates an apparel SPA business with the support of a PE fund. They offer business promotion and improvement support to increase profits in the retail and distribution industries.

Alpha Corporation

Acquisition in 2017
Alpha Corporation, founded in 2005, operates as a tutoring service based in Tokyo, Japan. The company specializes in providing personalized home tutoring through its private centers, offering one-on-one instruction delivered by professional tutors. This focused approach aims to enhance the educational experience for students by catering to their individual learning needs.

FujiField Co.

Acquisition in 2017
FujiField Co., Ltd. is a company based in Tokyo, Japan, founded in 2006. It operates as a veterinary hospital and also engages in the manufacturing of pet supplies. As of April 2017, the company functions as a subsidiary of JVCC, Ltd. Through its dual focus on veterinary services and pet products, FujiField aims to support the health and well-being of animals while catering to the needs of pet owners.

Asiro

Private Equity Round in 2016
Asiro is a legal services company based in Tokyo, Japan, founded in 2009. It specializes in corporate law and operates legal media platforms that connect the legal profession with the IT industry and other sectors. Through these platforms, Asiro facilitates communication and collaboration between legal professionals and various stakeholders, enhancing the accessibility and efficiency of legal services.

Aisei Pharmacy

Acquisition in 2016
Aisei Pharmacy is a retail pharmacy chain based in Marunouchi Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan, founded in September 1984. The company specializes in the sale of prescription drugs, proprietary medications, and non-prescription medicines through a network of over 350 dispensing pharmacies across the country. In addition to its pharmacy operations, Aisei Pharmacy operates dispensary clinics that offer nursing care and medications for patients, as well as preventive health check-ups for healthy individuals. This comprehensive approach enables Aisei Pharmacy to support both the treatment of illnesses and the promotion of overall health and wellness.

Platia

Private Equity Round in 2016
Platia Ltd. is a Japanese company based in Higashiosaka, founded in 2003, that specializes in providing welfare-related services for seniors and individuals with dementia. The company operates nursing homes specifically designed to cater to the needs of elderly patients, ensuring a supportive and caring environment. Through its dedicated facilities, Platia aims to enhance the quality of life for its residents while addressing the unique challenges associated with dementia care.

Esco

Private Equity Round in 2015
Esco engages in the operation and maintenance of energy-saving and cost-saving products and services. It provides environment/CO2 reduction consulting and safety inspection of cubicles like high-voltage receiving and transforming equipment.

NHS Insurance Group

Private Equity Round in 2015
NHS Insurance Group offers a wide range of consulting services with a focus on insurance agencies.

Japan Hospice Holdings

Private Equity Round in 2014
Japan Hospice Holdings Inc. operates in the hospice housing and home care sector in Japan, focusing on providing care for patients with end-stage cancer and incurable diseases. Established in 2017 and headquartered in Tokyo, the company offers specialized services in hospice housing and home-visit nursing, ensuring that patients receive appropriate medical care in a comfortable environment. Additionally, Japan Hospice supports the development of home hospice services through research and planning, while also managing outpatient and multi-function nursing care services. Its comprehensive approach aims to enhance the quality of life for patients and their families during challenging times.

Tokai Trim

Private Equity Round in 2013
Tokai Trim is a manufacturer specializing in the production of automobile seat covers and related products. The company offers a range of items for both four-wheeled and two-wheeled vehicles, including seat covers, tire covers, seat assemblies, and various canvas products. Additionally, Tokai Trim produces truck hood sheets and other canvasing materials, serving the automotive sector with a diverse product line tailored to meet the needs of vehicle manufacturers and consumers alike.

Primagest

Private Equity Round in 2013
Primagest, Inc. is a provider of hardware and software solutions for electronic document and image processing, headquartered in Kawasaki, Japan. Established in 1968, the company manufactures reader-sorter systems and scanners, and offers a range of software tools including image application development, form recognition, and multimedia database systems. It also provides enterprise archiving solutions, workflow management tools, and business process management packages. In addition to these products, Primagest delivers consulting, system construction, support, and maintenance services, along with outsourcing solutions. The company serves various sectors, including finance, transportation, public services, healthcare, and telecommunications. Primagest operates multiple offices across Japan and is a subsidiary of ORIX Corporation.

Three Arrows

Private Equity Round in 2012
Three Arrows, Inc. is a Tokyo-based company founded in 2000 that specializes in retailing pet products, primarily focusing on dogs and cats. The company offers a diverse range of items, including pet clothing and healthy pet food, catering to the needs of pet owners. Through its product development and import-export operations, Three Arrows aims to provide high-quality supplies that enhance the well-being of pets.

CANDEAL

Post in 2011
CANDEAL offers a construction service system network, and it is developing a construction service-related business in a variety of fields such as detached houses, collective housing, and commercial facilities.

Alsok Care

Private Equity Round in 2011
Alsok Care provides long-term care with nursing homes, operation and management of the elderly private rental housing.

Taiheiyo Seiki

Private Equity Round in 2011
Taiheiyo Seiki is a manufacturer and distributor of construction machinery components based in Tokyo, Japan. The company specializes in producing a range of products, including rotary center joints, tension cylinders, toggle pins, front idlers, yokes, track rollers, carrier rollers, triple flanges, and oscillating rollers. Through its focus on quality and precision, Taiheiyo Seiki supports the construction industry by providing essential machinery parts that enhance the performance and reliability of construction equipment.

Apoplus Station

Private Equity Round in 2010
Apo Plus Station is a Tokyo-based company that specializes in providing contract sales organization (CSO) and contract research organization (CRO) services within the medical sector. The company connects medical professionals and institutions, facilitating job placement and staffing solutions. Additionally, Apo Plus Station offers support for work style reform proposals and provides clinical research and development assistance in the food and pharmaceutical industries. Through these services, the company helps pharmaceutical companies enhance their business operations and expand their reach in the healthcare market.

Halmek holdings

Private Equity Round in 2009
Halmek Holdings is dedicated to enhancing the health, lifestyle, and overall happiness of senior women through a diverse range of content, products, and services. The company operates in several areas, including a content business that produces magazines, websites, courses, and events tailored to its audience. Additionally, Halmek Holdings runs a mail-order business that addresses the evolving needs of consumers, offering products that cater to the physical and emotional changes associated with aging. The company also provides consulting services and operates an advertising agency. Through its various initiatives, Halmek Holdings aims to empower women to lead positive and fulfilling lives in their later years.

TSS

Private Equity Round in 2009
TSS Co., Ltd. is a manufacturer based in Sagamihara, Japan, specializing in the production and development of electronic circuit boards. The company offers a diverse range of products, including general and special printed wiring, metal and copper post boards, and power electronics. Additionally, TSS produces in-vehicle lights, specialty circuit boards, semiconductor modules, and LED module substrates, catering to various applications within the electronics industry.

Matsuzawa

Private Equity Round in 2007
Matsuzawa provides management guidance for group companies.

RENOVA Japan

Private Equity Round in 2006
RENOVA, Inc. is a Japanese company specializing in the renewable energy sector. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Tokyo, it operates primarily through two main segments: Renewable Energy Power Generation and Renewable Energy Development and Operation. The Power Generation segment is responsible for generating and selling electricity from various renewable sources, including solar photovoltaic, biomass, wind, and geothermal power plants. The Development and Operation segment focuses on the development and management of these renewable energy facilities. Through its operations, RENOVA contributes to the growing demand for sustainable energy solutions in Japan.
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