The Innovation Group recently announced a strategic partnership with Kotaro Fujimoto, the preeminent casino and integrated resort research and specialty advisor in Japan. Consulted by local governments and the private sector, Fujimoto serves as a lead researcher at the Institute of Amusement Industry Studies at the Osaka University of Commerce. Fujimoto recently has worked with the Innovation Group’s Steve Rittvo and David Rittvo to secure several strategic government and commercial advisory contracts, successfully expanding the initiative’s joint development and advisory team.
For several years, the Innovation Group has invested significantly in Japan, securing its position as the most sought-after advisor in the region as legislation continues to be debated regarding the liberalization of gaming. Teaming with Fujimoto as its strategic local partner, the Innovation Group already has solidified numerous assignments at the federal, prefecture and local government level, particularly in Osaka. The firm is well established in Asia, having successfully completed notable assignments in Macau, Korea, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and the Philippines, in addition to Japan.
Fujimoto stated, “I am thrilled to be partnering with the Innovation Group as we lend our combined expertise to the legislative and development stakeholders in Japan. Together we have fostered a knowledgeable team that can provide value added services to assist Japan with its growth into the Integrated Resort Market.”
The Innovation Group is one of the most highly regarded global advisory firms for public and private sector assignments in gaming, entertainment and hospitality. The firm works with governments, operators, developers and banking institutions around the world. The company has hired permanent staff from large-cap operators in Macau and Singapore, and plans to open its first international office in Asia within the next two quarters, potentially in Japan.
