Digital Integration Cuts Japan's Market Arrival Time by 82%
Tokyo, Tuesday, 15 April 2025.
Japan’s agrifood sector achieves a significant 82% reduction in market arrival time through digital integration of Midori Cloud and KitFit Marche, optimizing the fresh produce supply chain.
Technological Innovations Optimize Supply Chain
A joint project by the Distribution Economics Institute of Japan and the Smart Food Chain Promotion Organization, in collaboration with Tsuzuki Electric and Cellic, has ushered in transformative improvements to the agrifood supply chain across Japan. By digitally linking the Midori Cloud Rakuraku Shukka system with the KitFit Marche, these organizations achieved an impressive 82% reduction in arrival time at wholesale markets. This leap in efficiency underscores the potential for digital solutions to streamline supply chains [1][2].
Impact on Distribution and Environmental Sustainability
The initiative, part of the Cabinet Office’s ‘BRIDGE’ program, integrates advanced systems to modernize food distribution through standardized product codes and source marking. This not only facilitates quicker market access but also helps minimize environmental impact by enhancing distribution efficiency and reducing waste. By transitioning from the traditional manual and paper-based processes to a fully automated system, the program exemplifies how technology can significantly lower the carbon footprint associated with food logistics [1][2].
Key Players and Future Plans
Shunsuke Orikasa, CEO of the Smart Food Chain Promotion Organization, emphasized that this initiative is merely a starting point for further enhancements. Tsuzuki Electric’s Director of Industry Services, Kensuke Aoki, highlighted the rapid and accurate data exchange made possible by this digital integration. The Midori Cloud Business Division, led by Kohei Mochida at Seraku, plays a crucial role in this transformation. There are strategic plans to extend these innovations nationwide among Japan Agricultural Cooperatives and affiliated markets, with full implementation targeted by June 2025 [1][2].