2021/02/02
Keio University
Professor Yutaka Hamaoka of the Faculty of Business and Commerce at Keio University has been conducting an ongoing survey on "research and development" and "product development" targeting the domestic manufacturing industry since 2007. In 2020, in addition to these topics, the survey also investigated the impact of the Great East Japan Earthquake and the Fukushima nuclear accident, the status of business continuity planning for emergencies, and the state of remote work, as well as the impact on markets and business performance, since the outbreak of COVID-19.
The survey was conducted in late November, targeting the heads of product development departments at 1,283 companies (628 listed and 655 unlisted). By the end of December, 95 companies had responded (33 listed and 62 unlisted), for an overall response rate of 7.4% (5.3% for listed companies and 9.5% for unlisted companies).
The results from the survey questions related to emergencies showed that 70% of companies responded in accordance with guidelines from the national and local governments, highlighting the importance of swift decision-making by these government bodies.
The results also revealed that while many companies experienced a significant impact on their sales, a considerable number also found new needs and sales channels.
Please see below for the full press release.