Message from the President

To be a business partner chosen for its commitment to the SDGs

The world is currently facing a broad array of social and environmental issues, such as the growing severity of climate change, the transition to new energy sources, and widening economic disparity. On the domestic front, changes in the structure of society are beginning to emerge, most notably through a decline in the birthrate and shift in demographics followed by the subsequent drop in population as well as the deterioration of local communities. As the world becomes increasingly fragmented, the issue of energy security attracts widespread attention due to mounting geopolitical risks, and such technological innovations as generative AI transform the structure of industry, we are also entering an era in which companies must look increasingly to the future with a more flexible and innovative perspective.

Under these circumstances, SMFL Group has identified the goal to be "chosen for its commitment to SDGs" as one component of Our Vision. This goal embodies our commitment to tackle the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) head-on, contribute to the sustainable development of society going forward, and be chosen by the next generation.

Since the start of our leasing business, we have leveraged our expertise on equipment to expand into diverse financial services and other wide-ranging businesses with the support of customers, partners, and many other stakeholders.

In recent years, we have also developed various solar, wind, biomass, hydropower, and other renewable energy power generation businesses, engaged in on-site and off-site power generation projects to provide CO₂-free electricity, and provided energy conservation support and related services. And we work actively to resolve social issues by promoting circular economy businesses and advancing regional revitalization while helping customers improve the efficiency of their DX and business operations using DX solutions developed in-house. As far as the company itself is concerned, we are implementing work style reforms and are endeavoring to grow in concert with customers and society.

Taking the aforementioned into consideration, we identified the four "environment," "next generation," "community," and "job satisfaction" materialities (key issues). At the same time, we designated eight of the 17 SDGs as areas of focus. Against this backdrop, we will position commitment to SDGs at the heart of our growth strategy. In areas of expertise, we will contribute to a decarbonized and circular economy and the development of people and businesses that will shape the next generation. Moreover, we will contribute to the sustainable development of local communities while creating opportunities for everybody to be actively involved in a better future.

By seriously confronting the vision of the world to which future generations aspire and actively contributing to that future, we too will secure sustainable growth and become the business partner of choice going forward.