Lixil, Sharp Agree Business Collaboration

JS Group announced on Thursday its core construction materials and housing equipment making subsidiary, Lixil Corporation and Sharp Corporation agreed to establish joint venture for development and sales of the firms’ construction materials and electronic equipment integrated products. The JV will also plan sales of Sharp’s energy-saving electronics through Japanese largest housing equipment maker, Lixil’s construction material marketing route. Lixil and Sharp will conclude joint venture contract by May 31.

Lixil and Sharp discuss to establish 50/50 joint venture. The firms aim to increase its market share not only in domestic housing but also in office building.

Lixil and Sharp plan to develop all-in-one solar panel roof and LED lighting, which is easy to install in ceilings. Sharp, which has the advantage on energy-saving electronics making technology, could get know-how on easy-to-install electronics development and utilize the Lixil’s route for sales. Lixil could utilize Sharp’s energy-saving and ecological technology for construction material development.