Star Micronics Co., Ltd.

Star Micronics is a precision machinery manufacturer built around a global niche strategy. Its defining feature is a combination of two small but strong businesses—compact printers and CNC automatic lathes—and an approximately 90% overseas sales ratio. It produces compact printers for POS and related applications, as well as CNC automatic lathes used to machine precision components for watches, automobiles, dental applications, and other fields; both businesses hold high global shares in their respective niches. About 90% of revenue and about 70% of personnel are overseas. The company is based in Shizuoka, and its fiscal year ends in December.