The major air conditioning manufacturer Daikin has successfully embedded the Japanese management philosophy "Kaizen," or continuous improvement, into its United States operations. While the timing is not explicitly stated in the headline, it suggests a recent implementation and positive effects. The company deploys the strategy in an effort to enhance efficiency and quality in production and remove waste, all as part of its expansion strategy in the U.S market.

In Japan, the "Kaizen" strategy is a deeply rooted method in corporate management, aiming for ceaseless betterment in all areas of a business. Its acceptance testifies Japanese business culture's emphasis on steady progress, meticulousness, and team contribution. For the public, news regarding successful overseas deployment of a local strategy often instills pride and adds to the company's reputation.

While "Kaizen" is not unfamiliar to U.S. or EU companies, its integration level may vary, with not all firms interpreting or utilizing it in the same way as Japanese firms. Acknowledgment of cultural, managerial and structural differences is essential for the successful implementation of this Japanese strategy in foreign markets.