Corporate OutlineAbout Us

FAQFrequently Asked Questions

To help you gain a deeper understanding of Komori, we have compiled answers to the questions we receive most often.

About the Company

Q

What is the future outlook for the printing industry, and how does Komori position itself within it?

A

In recent years, the technological environment and business domains surrounding the printing industry have undergone significant change.
In today’s digitally networked world, printing plays an important role as an information‑value industry within an advanced information society.
Komori has continued to deliver high‑quality products worldwide through its own technologies and has successfully advanced the automation of printing processes, establishing a strong and stable position in the industry.
Looking ahead, further growth will require strengthening sales not only in advanced markets such as Europe and the United States, but also in emerging economies, where demand for printing technologies continues to expand.
In addition to traditional offset printing presses, Komori is developing:

  • Digital printing presses
  • PE (Printed Electronics)
  • Cloud‑based operation management tools, such as KP‑Connect, which visualizes press performance and enhances productivity across the entire printing workflow.

Through these initiatives, Komori provides solutions that contribute to the development of the global printing industry.
As an industry leader, our role will become even more important in the years ahead.

Q

What is Komori’s management philosophy?

A

Komori’s management philosophy is Realization of Kando “beyond expectations.”
This means not only meeting expectations, but consistently delivering value that goes beyond what
stakeholders anticipate. We place great importance on continuing to provide these moments of inspiration. At Komori, we consider all stakeholders—customers, employees, and partner companies—to be recipients of this sense of “Kando.”

To achieve this, we focus on:

  • Providing high-quality products and superior solutions
  • Creating a workplace where employees feel motivated and engaged
  • Building strong, collaborative relationships with partner companies

Through these efforts, every employee works together with a shared commitment to embodying Komori’s philosophy in their daily roles.

Q

Komori’s brand awareness doesn’t seem very high. Why is that? How do you promote new products?

A

Manufacturers of consumer products—such as automobiles or home appliances—need broad brand recognition because their products target the general public.
In contrast, Komori is an industrial manufacturer that produces printing presses and printing management systems, which are classified as capital equipment. Our users are exclusively professional printing companies, not general consumers.
For this reason, there is no need for mass‑market advertising or TV commercials.
While producing consumer‑style advertising is certainly possible, Komori chooses instead to invest those resources into equipment development and quality improvement, which directly benefit our customers.
Komori also focuses heavily on product promotion within the professional printing industry. We develop new products in preparation for major international exhibitions, including:

  • IGAS (held in Japan every four years)
  • drupa (held in Germany every four years)
  • CHINA PRINT (held in China every four years)

In addition, we actively participate in small- and medium-scale exhibitions around the world, as well as host Komori‑organized events, where we invite domestic and international users to showcase our technologies and printing solutions.

Q

When manufacturing printing presses, how does Komori address environmental impact?

A

In recent years, awareness of environmental issues has increased significantly. However, the process of manufacturing printing presses itself generates very little pollution, such as noise, vibration, smoke, or wastewater.
We are committed to promoting “Harmony Between the Factory Environment and Printing Presses.”
We focus not only on productivity but also on developing equipment that is environmentally friendly and comfortable for the workplace—addressing factors such as noise levels and heat generation.
Komori completed company‑wide ISO certification in June 2003, demonstrating our commitment to environmental management.
As a group, we have also established our long‑term environmental vision, “Komori Eco‑Vision 2030.”
In the 2025 Nikkei SDGs Management Survey, Komori received an overall deviation score of 52.8, reflecting the recognition of our sustainability efforts.
Looking ahead, we aim to contribute to a sustainable society by advancing initiatives in:

  • Climate change mitigation
  • Circular‑economy practices
  • Biodiversity conservation

Komori will continue to promote environmentally responsible manufacturing and support the long‑term health of our planet and society.

Q

Which countries does Komori export security printing presses to?

A

Komori began exporting security printing presses in 1991, with two presses delivered to Russia. Since then, we have supplied presses to several countries, including China and South Korea.
In 1995, we delivered a full production line—covering printing, cutting, and packaging—to India, followed by another full line to Nigeria in 1996.
Building on these achievements, Komori successfully delivered presses to Germany in 1999, the birthplace of modern printing technology.
In recent years, we have also delivered systems to the United Kingdom and the Philippines, demonstrating that our technological capabilities are recognized worldwide.

Working Environment

Q

Is there a possibility of relocation or job transfers?

A

Employees may be assigned to different locations in Japan or overseas, as well as to different functions, as part of their long-term career development. As a result, relocation and job transfers may occur throughout their careers.
However, Komori operates a self-declaration system, conducted once a year, where employees can submit their preferences regarding transfers and career paths. We make every effort to take these preferences into consideration when planning assignments.

Q

What is the average amount of overtime work?

A

Overtime varies depending on the department and seasonal workload, so there are natural fluctuations.
However, on average, employees work approximately 10 to 20 hours of overtime per month.

Q

How many days of annual paid leave are granted? Also, what is the average number of paid leave days taken per employee?

A

In the first year of employment, employees receive 13 days of annual paid leave. In the second year, this increases to 14 days, and to 15 days in the third year.
After that, 2 days are added for each additional year of service, up to a maximum of 20 days.
The average number of paid leave days taken per employee is 11.8 days per year.
*To further promote the use of paid leave, Komori introduced an hourly paid leave system in 2019.

Q

What kind of training programs are provided after joining the company?

A

After joining Komori, new employees participate in a series of structured training programs designed to support their transition into the company and develop the skills needed for their roles.

1. Two‑Week Basic Onboarding Training at the Head Office
During the first two weeks, new employees attend training sessions at the head office.
This program covers:
  • Professional attitude and behavior expected in a corporate environment
  • Fundamental knowledge about the company
  • Approaches to work and business operations
2. Factory Training (Until Late June)
Following the initial training, employees undergo hands‑on factory training until the end of June.
This provides practical understanding of manufacturing processes and printing technologies.
3. Provisional Assignment & On-the-job training
After factory training, employees receive a preliminary assignment and begin on‑the‑job training in their respective departments.
Through actual work tasks, they develop practical skills and gain real workplace experience.
4. Follow-Up Training (Around Six Months After Joining)
Approximately six months after joining the company, a follow-up training program is held.
This includes:
  • Reviewing progress in on-the-job training
  • Identifying individual challenges and development areas
  • Strengthening skills that support future growth
This program helps employees reflect on their experiences and build a solid foundation for further development.
5. Final Assignment Interview
The one‑year training curriculum concludes with an interview to determine the final department assignment, marking the completion of the new employee training cycle.
For more information:
Q

I would like to pursue self‑development. Does Komori offer any programs to support this?

A

Yes. Komori provides support for self‑development through its correspondence course program.
Employees can choose from approximately 200 courses across a wide range of subjects, and the company covers a portion of the course fees.

Q

How are department assignments decided?

A

After the initial group training, each new employee has an individual interview.
Based on the employee’s preferences and aptitudes, a provisional department assignment is made.
Following this, employees begin on‑the‑job training in their provisional departments.
After about one year, a second individual interview is conducted to determine the final department assignment.
However, as with any company, assignments ultimately depend on each department’s workforce plan for that year.
While we make every effort to take individual preferences into consideration, we cannot guarantee that all employees will be placed exactly in their first-choice department.

Q

Does Komori have a dormitory for single employees? If so, can all applicants move in?

A

Yes. Komori operates a dormitory for single employees in Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture.
Employees who cannot commute from home are eligible to live in the dormitory.
In principle, all applicants who meet the eligibility requirements can move in.
However, the maximum residency period is set until the standard age of 28.
The dormitory rooms are private 6‑tatami‑mat–size studio units equipped with heating and air‑conditioning.

About the Work Responsibilities

Q

How much technical knowledge is required for a sales position?

A

Many employees who join our sales organization do not have prior technical knowledge of printing technology when they begin their careers at Komori. There is absolutely no need to worry—product knowledge is gradually acquired through:

  • New employee training
  • Study sessions organized by the sales department
  • On‑the‑job training

These programs are designed to help new sales employees build the necessary understanding step by step.

Q

What are the responsibilities of domestic sales positions?

A

The Domestic Sales Department includes not only general sales roles but also various other sections such as administration, public relations, and planning. Each section has different responsibilities, but together they handle a broad range of activities including product promotion, sales, and after‑sales support for customers in Japan.
To provide service that truly impresses our customers, it is essential—regardless of the specific role—to think from the customer’s perspective and engage in proactive, proposal‑based sales activities.

Q

What are the responsibilities of an overseas sales position?

A

Komori currently operates 20 overseas subsidiaries, primarily in Europe, the United States, and Asia. Sales activities vary by region and are conducted either through direct sales by these subsidiaries or, in regions without a subsidiary, through authorized distributors. This allows us to tailor our sales approach to the specific needs and business practices of each market.
The Overseas Sales Department plays a key role as a bridge between subsidiaries and our production departments. Responsibilities include:

  • Responding to technical inquiries from overseas subsidiaries and distributors
  • Managing procedures and documentation from order placement to export
  • Coordinating with production teams and logistics for delivery schedules
  • Supporting global customers with product information and technical explanations

Communication is primarily conducted via phone, email, and online meetings, but there are also many opportunities to:

  • Travel abroad for customer negotiations
  • Participate in international trade shows and exhibitions
  • Host visiting customers from overseas and provide plant tours

This role requires global coordination, communication skills, and the ability to manage diverse tasks across multiple regions.

Q

If assigned overseas from the Overseas Sales Department, where would I go and how many employees are typically stationed there?

A

In many cases, employees from the Overseas Sales Department are assigned to one of Komori’s overseas subsidiaries.
There are various patterns—some employees are assigned once at a young age (around 30), others go later as mid‑career managers, and some may eventually serve as the head of the subsidiary.
Typically, each subsidiary has between one and five Japanese employees stationed there.

Q

Can you explain Komori’s overseas business development and the role of the Overseas Sales Department?

A

Komori exported its first sheet-fed printing presses in 1949, becoming one of the first Japanese manufacturers in the postwar period to do so.
From around 1980, we expanded rapidly into the global market, and today, exports account for approximately 70% of our total sales. Komori’s quality and technological capabilities are highly regarded worldwide.
In recent years, we have established offices in major countries across Europe, the United States, and Asia to provide localized technical support and sales services.
In regions where we do not have a subsidiary, we work through trusted distributors who understand local business practices and customer needs.
The Overseas Sales Department plays a central role in this global structure. Key responsibilities include:

  • Acting as a bridge between overseas subsidiaries, distributors, and Komori’s production teams
  • Responding to technical inquiries from global customers and partners
  • Managing procedures and documentation from order placement through export
  • Traveling to various countries to meet customers, discuss needs, and propose suitable products
  • Supporting international exhibitions and events
  • Hosting and guiding overseas customers when they visit Japan

In short, overseas sales requires strong coordination, communication, and the ability to understand diverse markets while presenting Komori’s solutions directly to customers around the world.