Business Expanding Menlo Systems, a German developer of industrial and research lasers, establishes a Japanese subsidiary in Shizuoka Prefecture

Menlo Systems, founded in Munich, Germany as a spin-off from the Max-Planck-Institute for Quantum Optics in 2001, develops and manufactures measuring equipment for precision measurements. It is known for its optical frequency comb(Note) technology, for which co-founder Professor Theodor W. Hänsch was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2005. The company has overseas subsidiaries in the U.S. and China, with more than 170 employees worldwide. The majority of its employees have a university degree in physics or engineering, and are well versed in precision measurement in the field of optics.

The company's main product lines are optical frequency combs, time and frequency distribution, terahertz systems, ultrafast and ultrastable lasers, and control electronics. In addition to standard products, it develops and provides custom-made solutions for precision measurement equipment based on lasers. The company's core technology originates in stabilized lasers for optical frequency comb generation and are used in applications such as quantum technology, spectroscopy, astronomy, or space borne metrology. Its mission is to accelerate the advancement of optical technology for precision measurements, from table tops of research laboratories to standard use in communication and high technology industries, and to push the boundaries of what can be measured.

To expand its business and to strengthen its connection to its customers in Japan, the company established Menlo Systems K.K. in Shizuoka Prefecture in March 2021.

When the company established its Japanese base, JETRO Invest Japan Business Support Center (IBSC) provided market information, consultation (registration, tax, labor), and introduced service providers (judicial scriveners and tax accountants).