Hitachi is reportedly considering selling its domestic home appliance business, which includes products like refrigerators and washing machines. This move is part of the company’s strategy to focus its management resources on core businesses related to social infrastructure, such as power and rail systems, and on growth areas like IT services for businesses. The home appliance division is operated by Hitachi Global Life Solutions (Hitachi GLS), which had sales of 367.6 billion yen for the fiscal year ending March 2025.
The domestic market for home appliances is expected to plateau due to the declining birthrate and aging population in Japan. Hitachi has already transferred its overseas appliance business to a joint venture with Arçelik in Turkey, established in 2021. The company is reportedly proposing the sale to multiple entities, including Korean firms, though negotiations may face challenges.
This potential sale is part of Hitachi’s broader strategy of “select and focus,” which has included selling off subsidiaries and related companies like Hitachi Metals and Hitachi Transport System. Last year, the company announced its exit from the production of home air conditioners.
by MagazineKey4532