April 27, 2021 MARIETTA, Ga. — April 26, 2021— Zipper and fastening products manufacturer YKK has kicked off a new four-year business planning period with a major reorganization aimed at speeding up communication and time to market, with an emphasis on digitalization, sustainability, and diversity. Under the business policy of “Sustainable Growth under the New Normal,” YKK has created a new, enhanced R&D division called the Technology Innovation Center (TIC) that will focus on developing entirely new technologies, materials, and new business. YKK has also committed to invest 2.5 billion yen in digitalization, focusing on customer-facing initiatives such as the establishment of a Digital Business Planning Department tasked with improving customer connections and business speed using digital technology. The company will also enhance its collaboration with customers through partnerships with digital platforms.