In response to the diversifying needs brought forth by the advancement of IT technology, product-oriented groups have been restructured as industry-oriented groups. Technological synergy has been established within each group and productivity, product development and manufacturing quality have been enhanced.
Canon's lineup of home, office and industry products has been reinforced by leveraging the company's strengths in electrophotography and inkjet technologies. At the same time, the commercial printing business has been expanded and an industry printing business, which includes label and package printing, has been established. In the office printing market, new steps have been taken to support customer efforts towards a digital transformation via offerings in areas such as cloud integration.
Based on proprietary optical and sensor device technology, video analytics technology, network technology and cloud-based imaging AI technology cultivated over many years, Canon has expanded the scope of its business beyond the conventional camera industry to encompass the wider optical industry, which is part of the backbone of our digital society. Even while expanding the network camera business and establishing smart mobility businesses such as onboard cameras, Canon remains committed to maintaining its top position in the camera industry.
Performance has been enhanced for core products including CT, MRI and diagnostic ultrasound systems, along with manufacturing cost reductions. In addition, product competitiveness of diagnostic solutions has been strengthened, helping reduce the burden on healthcare professionals, and in image analysis applications that utilize AI. Business growth has been boosted by expanding sales networks in Europe, the Americas and emerging markets, and the full-scale entry into diagnostic equipment-adjacent markets such as test reagents.
With the ongoing growth in semiconductor devices and high-definition displays, Canon is working to lower production costs and improve installation efficiency of OLED panel manufacturing equipment, while at the same time striving to maintain a dominant share in i-line systems, which serve a diversifying range of needs. Development of competitive KrF systems and flat panel display (FPD) lithography systems is underway, with the aim of increasing market share and exploring new business fields.
Leveraging the collective technologies developed throughout Canon's history, a Group-wide organization has been established to boost growth in the life science and materials businesses and deliver new solutions in production technology and component sales, with the aim of creating new businesses that will help increase profitability.
Reinforce central functions to support growth strategies of industry-oriented groups.
Renewed focus on thorough cash flow management undertaken to reinforce Canon's solid financial foundation in preparation for a major investment or a future economic crisis. Accelerated debt repayment associated with M&A to ensure a strong financial position.
In line with diversifying employment and work styles, Canon has implemented a dynamic merit-based HR management system and begun efforts to improve the productivity of each employee. An expanded in-house training program offers personnel training aligned to the new business portfolio and an in-house career shift system assigns each employee to the most suitable role.
Today, there is a growing need for AI- and IoT-related software to make products more competitive and support manufacturing sites. In 2018, the Canon Institute of Software Technology (CIST) was established to develop the next generation of software engineers. This facility offers an extensive curriculum, including courses for new employees and those transitioning to new fields, as well as training to enhance engineering skills and cultivate top engineers who can lead businesses. Aiming to elevate the expertise of our engineers and strengthen our product development capabilities, we plan to add new courses covering such diverse topics as data science, AI and information security.
Top: The CIST building at Canon’s Shimomaruko Headquarters
Bottom-left: Image processing workshop
Bottom-right: Integrated training covering electricity, mechanics and software
Canon is pursuing cost reduction centered on automation and in-house production while completely overhauling product and device design through combined efforts in production technology, development, design, procurement and factories. A globally optimized procurement network and streamlined logistics are also being promoted.
As a division focused on the future, Canon HQ's R&D department is pursuing innovative research and development of new technologies that will contribute to each business group.