Canon Precision employs about 4,000 people, a number that includes full-time, temporary and part-time employees. The company sprung from the parent Canon Corporation group of subsidiaries: Tokyo Canon Precision Inc. and Hirosaki Canon Precision Inc. that merged in 2004. In 1972, Tokyo Canon Precision, searching a new manufacturing base, responded, the following year, to an enthusiastic invitation from the city of Hirosaki to establish its new industrial compound. In the years to come, both subsidiaries, although geographically apart, worked in close collaboration. Tokyo Canon Precision took charge of concept development and marketing, and Hirosaki Canon Precision oversaw manufacturing production. But in 2004, it was suggested that both companies would benefit more if they were set to merge.

Three plants in Hirosaki operate respectively, the motion control, the sensor, and toner cartridge operations. The key components support Canon Precision’s substantial productivity found in its advanced technology performance and high precision machinery. In the motion control operation, product development and creation work hand in hand to generate, through careful planning, components for new product systems. As for the sensor and cartridge operations, both oversee the production of ground-breaking assembly line technology, supplying highly reliable and excellent quality items. One of Canon Precision’s unique production formula known as “Just-timing cell” system is employed in toner cartridge operation in which high quality products are individually created in line, taking precedence over conveyor belt quantity production.

According to President Yoshikawa, Hirosaki City and its surroundings owe their commercial success to a large competent workforce operating round the clock in the various plants. He speaks warmly of the hard-working employees that nothing would deter from coming to work on time even on a heavy snowfall morning. He is especially amazed at the accuracy and effectiveness shown without fail in the production process that successfully puts into practice the “Just-timing cell” system implemented in Hirosaki.

And the president is convinced that the company’s prosperity comes - primarily - from its dedicated workers. Since its foundation, about 60 workers moved to Hirosaki from Tokyo, all have been pleased with the reduced commuting time, lower living expenses and the beautiful nature of the region. Furthermore, they take pleasure in playing golf, skiing as well as visiting local hot springs, and they all agree that Hirosaki is a comfortable place to live. Another positive feature that adds to the attractiveness of the city, is Hirosaki University’s Department of Science and Technology, that plays a part in the research and development of new technology, working in close cooperation with the company on a one-on-one basis, opening an active communication channel between the two.

In 2004, the number of employees rose from 2,000 to 4,000. Furthermore, along with Hirosaki and its neighboring industrial development, three collaborative companies have joined the local network that is on a regular growing path. The company has fostered the inspiration to progress and to take on new challenges in every aspect of pioneering endeavors, expanding and merging the latest technologies such as precision machines, precision processing technology as well as the desire to produce lasting top quality products.

In 2006, the company, looking to export overseas started shipping its products from Hachinohe Port via the Tokyo and Yokohama region ports. Eventually, in order to expand its horizons and to answer to the growing international demands, Canon Precision, Canon Group’s core corporation will secure a shipping route through the local port of Hachinohe to service Europe and North America.