France's ARC International has initiated a joint-venture with the Japanese distribution company Shibata. The French tableware giant says the operation fits perfectly into its strategy of working to get closer to customers & developing internationally. The partnership translates into the creation of a distribution subsidiary: ARC International Japan. Shibata is a family owned business located in Mizunami. The company achieved a turnover of EUR 6M/04 & has been collaborating with ARC since 1996. As a tableware wholesaler, Shibata distributes 60% glassware products & 40% food service dinnerware. The company has a staff of 28. ARC International Japan has an office in Tokyo where the Sales, Marketing & Accounting/Finance functions are based, & another unit in Mizunami which controls logistics, sorting, sales management & packaging.
