Yamato Holdings Co., Ltd. (Head Office: Chuo-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director and President: Yutaka Nagao), through the KURONEKO Innovation Fund II (hereinafter “KIF II”) (Operator: Global Brain Corporation), has invested in Shinkei Systems Corporation (Head Office: California, United States; CEO: Saif Khawaja; hereinafter “Shinkei”), a seafood robotics company perfecting humane, high-quality fish harvesting at scale.
The practice of severing fish nerves*1, exemplified by the artisanal “ike-jime” method, is a widely-used technique in Japan to reduce fish stress after they are caught, maintaining freshness and taste for a much longer period of time. Unfortunately, this fish processing technique has not fully caught on in the United States, resulting in lost freshness during distribution and significant fish waste before it reaches consumers.
Shinkei is a startup that aims to evolve the U.S. fishing industry. To solve social challenges like poor fish quality and fish waste, it has developed Poseidon, an automated robot for severing fish nerves while still on board the ship that caught them. Furthermore, in partnership with fishers, Shinkei is involved in the entire process from catching to processing and wholesaling. Shinkei’s advanced technology and vertically integrated*2 business model have not only facilitated the production of high-quality fish served in first-class restaurants in the U.S., but also offer the potential to help streamline work by fishers and reduce food waste.
Now, KIF II, in recognition of Shinkei’s advantages in technological development, potential for business growth, and commitment to building a business model for the industry, has made an investment in the company. Through this investment, the Yamato Group and Shinkei will mutually exchange their technology and expertise to create the new logistics and new value that the Yamato Group strives for.
*1 A technique used to keep caught fish fresh by severing the fish’s nerves to delay rigor mortis and inhibit fish odor and spoilage.
*2 A business model in which a single company handles a series of processes within product manufacturing and service provision, from procurement of raw materials to sales.