TBWA\Hakuhodo takes strategic stake in TechShop Japan
TBWA\Hakuhodo has taken a 15% stake in TechShop Japan, a makerspace established by Fuijitsu in 2015.
TBWA\HAKUHUDO invests in a 15% stake in TechShop Japan
It follows TBWA taking a majority stake in Lucky Generals earlier this year.
TechShop was first established in California in 2006. The membership-based DIY workshop and fabrication studio, provides access to equipment, tools and software, as well as classes on how to use them. It currently has nine locations in the US, with the only Asian operation in Japan.
As part of this investment TBWA's subsidiary \Quantum will serve as a strategic partner in the venture, supporting development and provisioning of new programmes. \Quantum is set to provide resources, support and know-how to incubate innovation as part of a ‘startup studio.’
“As the competitive nature of our industry escalates, challenging agencies to diversify and disrupt, we’re very excited about our new relationship with TechShop Japan, which will allow us to work with and guide some of the most innovative creators in Japan,” said Chris Iki, chief operating officer, TBWA\Hakuhodo.
“This partnership will also help harness a true ‘maker culture’ in our own company, continually extending the boundaries of our creative ideas, with new tools at our disposal to prototype and develop innovative concepts."