Press Room
Bridging Innovation and Culture: A Remarkable Visit to Japan with NCMT.
In May 2025, David Stanley had the privilege of joining a delegation of industry professionals on a remarkable visit to Japan, hosted by our long-standing partners at NCMT Ltd. While these trips have traditionally focused on technical insights and manufacturing excellence, this year’s experience took on a broader and more meaningful dimension – emphasising relationship-building, collaboration, and business-to-business engagement.
From the outset, the organisation was impeccable. Every detail – from travel logistics to cultural etiquette and even dress codes – was thoughtfully arranged, allowing delegates to focus fully on the experience. A sincere thank you goes to NCMT for their outstanding hospitality and attention to detail throughout the journey.
The itinerary included visits to several key manufacturing sites, most notably Okuma and Makino, each offering a distinct perspective on the intersection of innovation, tradition, and growth.
At Okuma, delegates were struck by the company’s deep-rooted heritage and its seamless integration of traditional craftsmanship with modern manufacturing techniques. The commitment to precision, often achieved through classical methods, was both inspiring and humbling, showcasing a philosophy where legacy and innovation coexist in harmony.
Makino, a trusted partner of ELE since 2010, presented a different but equally impressive narrative. Delegates toured their state-of-the-art innovation centre and spindle build facility, the latter operating as a sealed clean room. The level of engineering on display was exceptional, with every component designed for performance, control, and reliability. Machines are tested to within microns of tolerance, then disassembled and reassembled on-site, an extraordinary demonstration of their unwavering commitment to quality.
Yet, beyond the technical marvels, it was the cultural immersion that left the most lasting impression. Throughout the visit, delegates experienced the values that underpin Japanese industry: respect, efficiency, and precision. These qualities were evident not only in the technology but in every interaction, from boardroom discussions to informal exchanges.
This visit was more than a technical tour, it was a journey of shared values, mutual respect, and future-focused collaboration. The experience has deepened existing partnerships and sparked new ideas for what lies ahead.
To our hosts at NCMT, and to our colleagues at Okuma and Makino, thank you for the warm welcome, the generous hospitality, and the inspiration. The future of these partnerships looks brighter than ever.
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