MEXICO CITY (EFE).— The Japanese multinational Casio, known for its calculators, musical instruments and watches, assured its commitment to the Mexican market, considering it key in its expansion in Latin America and North America, due to its geographical proximity to the United States.
This was stated by Tatsuya Izaki, head of Research and Development at Casio, within the framework of the brand’s 50th anniversary in the country, where he highlighted that the company is not afraid of the competition represented by digital watches or “smartwatches.”
Izaki highlighted that Mexico plays a fundamental role in the company’s strategy, being closely linked to the US, one of the largest markets for the company.
“Mexico, because it is geographically close to the United States, enjoys a part of business that allows us to develop our operations in the region,” he indicated.
He added that the country is a natural connection point between the Latin American and North American markets, which makes it a key platform for the company’s activities in both regions.
Despite the favorable conditions in Mexico, Izaki clarified that, for now, Casio has no immediate plans to establish factories in the country, since its production of more complex watches is concentrated in its main plant in Yamagata, Japan, and in others. manufacturing centers located in Thailand and China.
However, Izaki emphasized that Mexico offers attractive opportunities in terms of expansion and promotion of its products, especially among young consumers.
Casio is not afraid of smartwatches
On the other hand, he maintained that Casio sees no threat from the growing competition from smart watches.
Izaki emphasized that the company remains true to its technological legacy and that its approach is based on the philosophy of “absolute resilience,” which has been a pillar of its success.
“We are not afraid of what others do because, when we started the Baby G business, we were already aware and very sure that this was already a pillar that could withstand any intervention,” said Izaki.
He said Casio has been present in the watch sector since 1974, when it launched its first line of digital watches, supported by its previous experience as a calculator manufacturer.
“The conviction of our founders has always been that the watch is nothing more than the sum of one plus one, emanating from their logical and digital thinking,” he noted.
In this context, he stated that Casio remains vigilant of advances in the smart watch sector and does not rule out incorporating new technologies.
“We are monitoring how our competitors are doing and whether there is any innovative technology that we can adopt to improve our products and offer greater satisfaction to our customers,” he stressed.
Bet on the traditional without leaving aside AI
Likewise, he acknowledged that they have already implemented artificial intelligence (AI) in some of their productive and creative processes, which resulted in a single 18-karat gold watch auctioned in 2023 in the United States with an estimated starting price of $70,000 to $140,000. to support an institution with charitable purposes.
However, he said that, although they have introduced AI in their mass production to test resistance processes, this technology will not replace the company’s spirit of “absolute resistance.”
“Something clear that at this moment I can say is that, although we can already use AI to produce a G-Shock, we are not going to do it because, for us, it is not simply a product, but we are imprinting our soul and spirit ”, he concluded.
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Interview with Tatsuya Izaki, Head of Research and Development at Casio
Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Mr. Izaki. Casio recently celebrated its 50th anniversary in Mexico. What does this milestone mean for the company?
Izaki: Thank you for having me. Celebrating 50 years in Mexico is a significant achievement for Casio. It highlights our commitment to the market and acknowledges Mexico’s vital role in our strategy for expanding throughout Latin America and North America.
Editor: You mentioned Mexico’s geographical proximity to the United States as a factor in your operations. Can you elaborate on how this affects your business?
Izaki: Certainly. Mexico serves as a natural connection point between Latin America and North America, which allows us to streamline our operations in the region. This geographical advantage enables us to develop relationships and expand our reach effectively.
Editor: In a competitive landscape, especially with the rise of smartwatches, how does Casio view its market position?
Izaki: We are not afraid of the competition that smartwatches present. Our long-standing philosophy of “absolute resilience” is at the core of our operations. We honor our technological legacy and continue to innovate, while also catering to the unique preferences of our consumers.
Editor: Are there plans for Casio to establish manufacturing facilities in Mexico in the future?
Izaki: As of now, we do not have immediate plans to open factories here. Our production of more complex watches is concentrated in Japan and some other locations in Asia. However, we see Mexico as a key platform for promoting our products, especially targeting the younger demographic.
Editor: It sounds like you see a lot of potential in the Mexican market. What specific opportunities are you targeting?
Izaki: Absolutely. Mexico has an exciting consumer base, especially among young people. We aim to engage them through our diverse product offerings, ensuring that we meet their evolving needs while remaining true to our roots.
Editor: Thank you, Mr. Izaki, for sharing your insights with us today. It’s clear that Casio is focused on both its legacy and the exciting future ahead in Mexico.
Izaki: Thank you for having me. We look forward to continuing our journey in this vibrant market!
Nding legacy and commitment to technological innovation have equipped us to remain resilient. We believe in the unique value of our products and the philosophy of “absolute resilience” that has been our guiding principle since our inception.
Editor: It’s interesting to hear about your approach. You also mentioned the potential to engage younger consumers in Mexico. What opportunities do you see here?
Izaki: Absolutely. Mexico is rich with potential, especially among its youth who are increasingly interested in technology and stylish products. Our G-Shock and Baby-G lines, for example, resonate well with young consumers looking for durability and fashion. This makes Mexico a key market for us to promote our innovations.
Editor: Casio has been in the watch sector since 1974. With your extensive experience, how do you plan to adapt to ongoing changes in the industry?
Izaki: While we respect the advancements in smartwatches, we continue to monitor the sector closely for innovative technologies that can enhance our existing products. We are already incorporating AI into our processes, but it’s important to us that technology complements, rather than replaces, our traditional craftsmanship and values.
Editor: That’s a fascinating perspective. Can you tell us more about Casio’s recent innovations, such as the 18-karat gold watch auctioned in the U.S.?
Izaki: Yes! That piece symbolizes where tradition meets innovation. We used AI in its design and production processes, but every watch we create carries our unique spirit and commitment to quality. Each piece is crafted with care, ensuring it reflects the legacy of Casio, which is of utmost importance to us.
Editor: Thank you for sharing these insights, Mr. Izaki. It’s clear that Casio remains dedicated to its roots while also embracing futuristic technologies.
Izaki: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss our vision. We’re excited about the future and our continued journey in Mexico and beyond.
