Keiretsu

The primary goal of such a corporate structure is to promote reciprocal benefits, which is impossible in the traditional relationship between a firm and its supplier. Distributors, financial institutions, and supply chain enterprises may be part of the business network.

It could be described as an unofficial corporate alliance that is closely aligned and collaborates to ensure mutual benefit for all companies in the network. It's important to remember that while these companies may have a vested interest in one another, they typically operate independently.

Understanding Keiretsu Networks

What Is Keiretsu?

The Keiretsu business network comprises manufacturers, supply chain partners, distributors, and financiers. These parties maintain their financial independence while working closely together to ensure each other's success.

The Japanese word keiretsu means "group." In business, the term is frequently used to refer to a partnership, alliance, or extended enterprise. A manufacturer can establish dependable, long-term relationships by establishing a keiretsu, which allows them to run a lean operation and focus on their core objectives.

Keiretsu Structure

Keiretsu's History

After World War II, keiretsu became popular in Japan. These businesses were the main engine of the Japanese economy in the second half of the twentieth century. These organisations continue to exist, though they are not as well-known as they once were.

Following the demise of the zaibatsu model, a family-controlled vertical monopoly organisation, keiretsu gained popularity. Keiretsu was essentially created by modifying the structure of certain zaibatsu. After the family holdings in these companies were sold, the member companies became separate entities.

The Advantages of Keiretsu

An alliance based on long-term, strong business connections ensures a stable and trustworthy supply chain, ensuring company continuity and intellectual technology protection.

• Keiretsu members improve risk management by reducing the number of unknown factors.

• Lowering procurement costs by obtaining goods from within the keiretsu improves supply chain efficiency. As a result of this efficiency, the just-in-time stock management system, which is a very effective technique, was developed.

• Keiretsu retains each other's shares through cross-shareholding, eliminating the risk of an adversarial takeover.

• Information exchange within the keiretsu has the potential to increase productivity.

The Disadvantages of Keiretsu

The Keiretsu structure reduces competition within the keiretsu, leading to inefficient operations and service provision.

• Because of the easy access to cash from the lead bank, businesses within the keiretsu risk engaging in risky tactics and borrowing beyond their means.

• Because of its larger size, the keiretsu is less likely to be able to respond quickly to changes in the market, culture, and technology.

• Monopolistic tendencies and closed markets may result from the keiretsu structure.

Case Study

What are Vertical Keiretsu? Take the example of any company to explain in a better way.

One large firm typically controls such a consortium. The group's lesser businesses typically serve as the big company's suppliers. These kinds of organisations are typical in the car, advertising, and electronics industries.

This kind of organisation typically consists of several suppliers and has a pyramidal structure. Direct material suppliers to the top corporation make up the first tier of suppliers. The companies that provide supplies directly to the first-tier businesses make up the second tier. None of the companies in these groups is likely aware of the other companies. Such organisations may be very large and comprise numerous smaller businesses.

Structure of Vertical Keiretsu

Toyota is an excellent example of this type of organisation. The automaker relies on its suppliers and manufacturers for parts and raw materials. Toyota fills the role of the anchor company. Other, smaller companies may not exist if Toyota did not exist.

Conclusion

Over the last ten years, several of Japan's most prominent companies have quietly used their supplier ties to accelerate innovation and substantially lower costs. The new keiretsu is a modern interpretation of the traditional system in which buyers and suppliers had close, cooperative connections.

Even today, a keiretsu-style structure could be beneficial. It helps to strengthen relationships with suppliers. Even though this corporate structure is less common outside of Japan, many businesses are beginning to use some of its components. You can read more about Keiretsu in the Keiretsu Invention book.