Sumitomo Corporation's CVC Invests in souco, a Provider of Logistics Hub Solutions

Sumisho Venture Partners (President: Hidehiro Yamaki, HQ: Shibuya, Tokyo), the corporate venture capital arm of Sumitomo Corporation, announced its investment in souco, a provider of logistics hub solutions.

souco is a company that provides new logistics hub solutions to address challenges in supply chains and logistics, going beyond the scope of matching warehouse seekers with providers. Amidst the adoption of hub-and-spoke logistics and the need to switch from long-distance transport to mid-distance transport using transshipment hubs, the company pursues the optimization of transport hubs to realize the future 'Physical Internet'.

Sumisho Venture Partners found the social significance and growth potential of souco's business compelling, and resonated with its mission: 'Supporting the optimal allocation of logistics resources through technology.' Consequently, they invested in souco's Series C extension round.

Since its founding in 2016, souco has been expanding its network of small and medium-sized logistics warehouses and implementing its business model in society. As it expands partnerships with various logistics stakeholders, it is expected to establish a key position in a logistics industry that is undergoing transformation and innovation. Sumisho Venture Partners expects souco to fully leverage its functions, network, and know-how.

As the CVC for Sumitomo Corporation, we will utilize the Sumitomo Corporation Group's business network and know-how to produce new business opportunities, including logistics facility businesses and future logistics models that incorporate the 'Physical Internet'.

About souco: Company Name: souco, Inc. Representative: Kunihito Nakahara, President Business Description: Provides new logistics hub solutions, such as warehouse and transport efficiency improvements, to address supply chain and logistics challenges under the vision of 'Rational cooperation and creative co-creation in logistics'. URL: https://www.souco.co.jp/

About Sumisho Venture Partners: Company Name: Sumisho Venture Partners, Inc. Established: April 2022 Location: Shibuya Scramble Square, Shibuya, Tokyo Investment Areas: AI/Quantum, Digital/DX, Robotics/Mobility, Decarbonization, Defense/Space, Healthcare (excluding drug discovery), etc. Investment Stage: Primarily Early to Middle stage President: Hidehiro Yamaki Website: https://sumisho-vp.com/