Abstract
This study sheds light on the international kaizen transfer process. Two research questions were explored: what are the major stages in the kaizen transfer process? And what are the activities, positive and negative factors influencing each stage? Case studies with 15 Japanese manufacturers in the Netherlands revealed that there are three stages in the kaizen transfer process: preparation, implementation, and integration. In addition, several new factors were found. Japanese companies are facing the challenge of deciding whether to continue with or dismiss employees who do not fit with the culture of kaizen. Looking at the process of kaizen transfer provides a tool for researchers to analyse a specific stage in it. This provides practitioners with an opportunity to assess in which stage they are located and what measure to take to advance to the next level.
