SmartKem Expands International Presence with Appointment of Japanese Representative

The expansion will enable the company to target the complete supply chain in Japan, from chemical suppliers to printing specialists and electronics manufacturers. With a strong heritage in the development of organic semiconductor technology for TFT display applications, SmartKem will deliver customised ink formulations that are designed to enable the manufacture of lightweight, ultra-thin and rugged flat panel displays as used in smartphones, laptops, tablet PCs and TV screens.

Based in Tokyo, Japan, Dr. Hirai brings to the role extensive high level technology experience, having worked for large organizations such as Canon Inc. at senior management and Director level. Dr. Hirai has specialist expertise in semiconductor materials and devices for applications such as displays, sensors, solar cells and fuel cells. Dr. Hirai will be responsible for ensuring that SmartKem's world class organic semiconductor materials are directed at leading Japanese organisations who are involved in the development and manufacture of flexible, lightweight and large-area printed electronics. Priority will be given to market-driven applications such as EPD, OLED and HD LCD display industries. Asia is the home of electronic device manufacturing and provides an exciting market potential for SmartKem's technology. The appointment of a highly respected representative in Japan marks the starting point of SmartKem's Asian strategy.

I am very excited to have the opportunity to represent SmartKem in Japan. The future of lightweight and flexible electronics will be driven by pioneering advances in material technology that will enable limitless applications comments Dr. Hirai. SmartKem is leading the development of these materials and it is with great pride that I will represent the company in the Japanese market with ground-breaking organic semiconductor solutions.

The global market for ultra-thin, lightweight printable electronics is growing rapidly and is estimated to reach $45 billion by 2016. Being a fast evolving industrial market, Japan is expected to play a key role in new developments, offering exceptional growth opportunities for forward-looking companies such as SmartKem adds Steve Kelly, CEO of SmartKem. Dr. Hirai is highly respected in the electronics industry and has impressive credentials within our target market sectors. We are confident that he will exceed our expectations and help us achieve our goal of becoming the leading independent provider of organic semiconductor solutions for TFT displays.

SmartKem was advised by Peter Bacon of Electronics Link Asia on this project.