Performance Materials Business
FY2023 in review
In FY2023, the Japanese government recategorized COVID-19
as a Class 5 infectious disease, leading more people to return
to pre-pandemic lifestyle and leading to a certain degree of
demand recovery as events and inbound tourism resumed.
However, business performance varied in different product
sectors. A recovery in the industrial sector was delayed by global inflation and the economic slowdown in China. Against
this backdrop, the Performance Materials Sales Division
focused on developing high-performance products in each
field and proposing paper as an alternative material to
plastics, engaging in sales activities tailored to the times.
Summary of the Performance Materials Sales Division
■ Performance Materials Business: Production
■ Major products (brands)
Business strategy going forward
The Performance Materials Sales Division contributes to society with environmentally friendly product lines and advanced technology.
Hanger hook made of PASCO®
Paper cups made of “Panse” environmentally
friendly paper packaging material
Electromagnetic noise suppression sheet
Performance Materials Sales Department
The Performance Materials Sales Department aims to meet society’s needs through proposals that reduce plastic waste and by offering other environmental solutions through the development of high-performance products based on paper materials. Firstly, in response to the expected increase in AI-powered services in advanced technology fields, we will ensure a stable supply of HOCTO® base paper for electronic component tape, used in component transportation, as well as microfine® filter media. Additionally, we will deliver a range of high-performance products made from paper materials such as PASCO® and Poem, and contribute to accessing clean water on a global scale through the production of reverse osmosis membrane supports, thus making a positive impact on the environment and society.
Containerboard Sales Department
The Containerboard Sales Department focuses on expanding sales channels, ensuring stable supply, and reducing environmental impact through weight reduction. Despite limited prospects for a rapid market recovery, the department will reinforce sales of lightweight base paper, for which domestic demand is expected to increase going forward. In exports, the department will prioritize profit by pursuing development in applications beyond corrugated cardboard boxes and engaging in sales activities that prioritize profitability.
Paper Cup Business Development Office
We will accelerate the development of paper cup base paper that matches user needs, leveraging our strength in low-CO2 base paper production capacity and the quality characteristics of both paper-based and white paperboard-based materials. Additionally, we will actively engage in a wide range of initiatives fostering a shift toward paper, such as plastic-free container proposals in collaboration with Hokuetsu Package Co., Ltd., and marketing activities involving paper containers.
Product Development Office
We will continue to explore the commercialization of plastic-alternative paper packaging materials and electromagnetic wave shielding materials to meet user needs. In the field of paper packaging materials, we will develop products that take into account packaging machine compatibility and the logistics process. In relation to electromagnetic waves, we will not only develop ultra-thin electromagnetic noise suppression sheets but also lightweight and heat-resistant electromagnetic wave absorbers, with the aim of expanding into the aerospace industry.
Hokuetsu Toyo Fibre Co., Ltd.
Hokuetsu Toyo Fibre produces vulcanized fibers that combine nano and micro cellulose. Vulcanized fibers are made from natural cellulose, giving them the characteristic properties of paper while exhibiting much stronger performance. They are also biodegradable and can return to the soil as part of the natural environmental cycle. With various properties such as strength, impact resistance, insulation, wear resistance, and oil resistance, vulcanized fibers are used in various industries worldwide, including in machinery parts, abrasive materials, and electrical insulation materials. We will continue to enhance our corporate value and contribute to society through the development of environmentally friendly products.
Suitcase made of vulcanized fiber
Hokuetsu Package Co., Ltd.
Hokuetsu Package operates in our Packaging and Paper Processing Business, leveraging its strength in the consistent production of base paper and paper materials, as well as processed products. We provide our customers with high-quality products in various fields, including paper containers, food packaging, and confectionery boxes used in convenience stores and supermarkets, as well as processed paper such as laminated boards used in cosmetics and medical product packaging, and milk and beverage containers under the TOHEI-PAK brand. Going forward, we will strive to accurately capture changes in the market environment and user needs, expand our existing business, and promote the sale of new products, including new businesses and high-performance paper containers.
TOHEI-PAK brand containers for
milk and other beverages