Page 96 - Nov- Dec 2024
P. 96
We are committed to our two historic home countries, in 2021 and, in Europe in 2023. In
creating a better, more 2023, we also committed to setting near-term emission reduction
sustainable future for all. With targets according to the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi),
the above, we are proud to be representing another step forward in the Group’s long-term goal
contributing to the below UN to address climate change by reducing the carbon footprint of its
Sustainable Development Goals operations and value chain.
(SDGs):
TIO: Today, you have introduced the exciting new Nikon
Industry, innovation, and Z series progressive lenses. Can you walk us through the key
infrastructure features and benefits of these lenses? What makes them unique
compared to competitor offerings?
Responsible consumption
and production Takeyasu Hirose (TH): The development of the Z Series
Progressive lenses started with the question: “Are today’s existing
Clean water and sanitation
progressive lenses fully satisfying their wearers' vision?” According
Through “Eyes on Carbon”, to our study, 8 out of 10 wearers are not completely satisfied with
we are contributing to the their progressive lenses. One of the key challenges is related to
global agenda of tackling intermediate vision. Wearers often have to make an effort to "try to
climate change. We are focused see" the intermediate vision, especially when reading small print.
on reducing and neutralising
the carbon footprint of our Through repeated R&D studies, we concluded that the
direct operations (Scopes 1 conventional progressive lens design technique was insufficient
and 2) across key areas. These to address this issue. We explored various potential solutions and
efforts are already showing determined that contrast management was key. For the first time
results, as we reached carbon in Nikon Lenswear history, we leveraged Nikon Corp's contrast
neutrality in our direct management expertise, which has been used in the development
operations in France and Italy, and evaluation of Nikkor camera lenses (MTF), to develop our Z
Series Progressives.
We are very satisfied with the results, and the feedback
from consumers wearing the Z Series Progressives has been
overwhelmingly positive. This improvement in contrast is
appreciated by wearers, who often describe their experience as:
"My vision is brighter and sharper."
TIO: When launching a new optical lens, how do you approach
market research?
TH: We have several approaches to driving our innovations. At
a macro level, we conduct consumer surveys to identify unmet
needs and potential opportunities. We also operate our flagship
optical retail store in Tokyo, called Nikon Megane. Real-time
engagement with consumers provides us with valuable insights
into our products and their needs. Additionally, we collaborate
with third-party institutions to synergize our development efforts.
Beyond these research avenues, we leverage Nikon’s rich optical
design expertise to enhance our spectacle lens solutions.
TIO: What are some critical factors to consider when
introducing lenses in emerging markets and how do these
considerations influence the development of the product?
TH: I believe that, fundamentally, consumers' vision needs
TAKEYASU HIROSE are universal. However, there are several factors that are specific
90 | THE INDIAN OPTICIAN | NOV-DEC 2024 INTERVIEW
