About MEIHO
MEIHO (Japanese: メイホー) is a name utilized by various Japanese companies and brands. In the manufacturing sector, the most internationally recognized entity is MEIHO Co., Ltd. (株式会社メイホー), a precision manufacturing firm specializing in precision molds, plastic injection molding, and advanced molding technologies. Established in 1973 in Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan, MEIHO has evolved from a small precision machining workshop into a technology-driven manufacturer serving the electronics, automotive, medical device, and industrial equipment industries.[1]
It should be noted that “MEIHO” is not a singular global trademark; other Japanese entities also use the name, including companies involved in facility management, engineering, and food processing.[2]
MEIHO Co., Ltd. Overview
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Company name | MEIHO Co., Ltd. (株式会社メイホー) |
| Founded | January 1973 |
| Headquarters | Nogata, Fukuoka Prefecture, Japan |
| Industry | Precision manufacturing, mold technology, plastic molding |
| Main technologies | Precision molds, injection molding, liquid resin molding, automated production |
| President | Katsuhiko Nagamatsu |
| Employees | Approximately 180 employees |
| Core philosophy | “To Keep Our Promise” |
| Main markets | Automotive, electronics, semiconductor, medical, biotechnology, industrial components |
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History
Foundation (1973–1980)
MEIHO commenced operations in January 1973 as Meiho Seiko, founded by Akira Nagamatsu as a small precision machining business initially focused on manufacturing components for injection molding dies. The founder’s philosophy centered on creating an enterprise that was small yet technically robust, reliable in fulfilling commitments, and dedicated to craftsmanship and innovation.
In 1977, the company was reorganized as MEIHO Co., Ltd. and expanded its scope to include precision mold manufacturing.[1] By the late 1970s, MEIHO had entered the production of injection molding dies, blow molding dies, and semiconductor-related precision molds.[1]
Expansion into Precision Manufacturing
1980s: Growth of Mold Technology
Throughout the 1980s, MEIHO expanded beyond mold design to offer comprehensive manufacturing solutions. Key developments during this period included the production of precision plastic parts, the expansion of molding facilities, the introduction of CAD/CAM technology, and the development of advanced precision manufacturing capabilities. Consequently, the company began supplying components to electronic manufacturers and semiconductor-related industries.[1]
1990s: International and Technology Expansion
In the 1990s, MEIHO strengthened its engineering capabilities through several key milestones, including the expansion of precision plastic injection molding, the development of compact injection molding equipment, the establishment of overseas business activities, and the acquisition of ISO9001 quality certification for manufacturing operations. During this era, MEIHO developed expertise in integrating the entire value chain—from mold design and production equipment to injection molding and mass production—rather than operating solely as a mold supplier.[1]
2000s: Automotive and Electronics Growth
During the 2000s, MEIHO expanded into higher-value manufacturing fields, producing components for automotive electronics, mobile devices, LED products, semiconductor equipment, and precision connectors. The company also adopted production improvement methods based on Japanese manufacturing practices, including activities derived from the Toyota Production System (TPS).[1]
2010s–Present: Medical and Advanced Materials
In recent years, MEIHO has focused on advanced molding technologies, particularly for industries requiring high precision and reliability.
Medical Manufacturing
MEIHO produces precision molded components for medical and biotechnology applications, such as medical containers, bio-related plastic components, and medical device parts. The company has obtained medical manufacturing certifications and expanded its healthcare-related production capabilities.[1]
Liquid Silicone Rubber (LSR) Technology
A notable technology in MEIHO’s portfolio is liquid silicone rubber molding. Applications for this technology include waterproof components, medical parts, electronic sealing components, and high-performance industrial parts.[1]
Core Technologies
Precision Mold Manufacturing
Precision mold technology serves as MEIHO’s foundational capability. The company emphasizes precision engineering and in-house manufacturing expertise, with capabilities covering semiconductor molds, injection molds, precision plastic molds, and custom tooling.[1]
Injection Molding
MEIHO provides high-precision injection molding services for complex plastic parts. Capabilities include micro molding, small-volume production, mass production, and multi-material molding.[1]
Ultra-Compact Injection Molding Machines
MEIHO has developed proprietary compact injection molding machines designed for specialized production environments. These systems offer benefits such as a reduced production footprint, flexible manufacturing, high precision, and efficient small-part production.[1]
Products and Applications
MEIHO operates primarily as a B2B technology manufacturer supplying components and production solutions rather than selling consumer products under its own brand. Its products are utilized across several key sectors:[1]
- Automotive Industry: Electronic connectors, precision plastic components, and sensor-related parts.
- Electronics Industry: Semiconductor components, connector parts, and precision molded components.
- Medical Industry: Medical containers, bio-related products, and device components.
- Industrial Equipment: Specialized molded parts and precision engineering components.
Manufacturing Philosophy
MEIHO’s corporate philosophy centers on reliability and problem-solving. The company describes itself as a “Problem-Solving Maker,” emphasizing engineering innovation, customer-focused solutions, continuous improvement, and manufacturing expertise. The founder’s principle, “To Keep Our Promise,” remains a core value within the company culture.[1]
Global Presence
MEIHO has operated internationally through partnerships and overseas activities, including past operations in North America and Hong Kong, as well as relationships with overseas customers and distributors.[1] Today, its products and technologies support global supply chains in automotive manufacturing, electronics, medical technology, and industrial manufacturing.
Brand Image
MEIHO is generally associated with Japanese precision engineering, high-quality manufacturing, advanced molding technology, flexible production systems, and long-term customer partnerships. Unlike consumer brands that compete through marketing and retail presence, MEIHO’s reputation is built primarily through engineering capability, manufacturing reliability, and industrial partnerships.
Summary
MEIHO Co., Ltd. is a Japanese precision manufacturing company founded in 1973 that has evolved from a small mold-making workshop into an advanced manufacturing partner for global industries. Its expertise encompasses precision molds, injection molding, liquid silicone molding, and specialized production technologies. With strong roots in Japanese craftsmanship and continuous technological development, MEIHO represents a typical Japanese monozukuri (manufacturing craftsmanship) company focused on solving complex production challenges.[1]
