WCM Mission set to Welcome its 56th cohort in Nagoya as applications for Spring 2027 are open

This forthcoming mission will bring together 20 entrepreneurs from 17 companies across 10 European countries (Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Romania, Serbia, and Spain) all seeking to deepen their understanding of Japanese manufacturing excellence and world-leading operational practices. 
During the week-long programme, participants will have the opportunity to observe how Japanese organisations apply lean management, continuous improvement, and shop-floor innovation to achieve sustainable competitive advantage. 
This edition is organised in partnership with Avex Inc., a precision manufacturer near Nagoya founded in 1949, a long-standing supplier to Toyota group companies such as Aisin and Daihatsu. Participants will visit sites operated by Avex, Aktio, Nissin Kogyo and Mifune to see TPS, kaizen, IoT-driven improvement and autonomation in practice.

As preparations for October's mission enter their final phase, the Centre is also looking ahead. Companies that were unable to apply or secure a place for the autumn programme have now a new opportunity, as recruitment for the 57th edition of the World Class Manufacturing mission is ongoing. 
The 57th WCM mission will take place from 1 to 5 March 2027, once again offering European manufacturing professionals a unique opportunity to learn directly from Japanese production leaders. Application deadline: 8 December 2026. 
https://www.eu-japan.eu/events/world-class-manufacturing-mission-II

Published: October 2026