#Japan #Tokyo #NSK #Hitomairu #Umenoyado

Strengthening Tradition and Innovation in Sake Brewing

Hitomairu Co., a subsidiary of NSK and formerly known as Kaku Yasu Group, headquartered in Tokyo, has taken a significant step towards advancing sustainability by investing in Umenoyado Sake Brewery. As part of its mid-term management plan, TRANSFORMATION PLAN 2028, Hitomairu aims to contribute to the further development of the alcohol and dining industry. Umenoyado, with over 130 years of history, stands out for its production of sake, plum wine, and fruit liqueurs, with products like the "Aragoshi series" receiving accolades both domestically and internationally.

Umenoyado Sake Brewery

Founded in 1893, Umenoyado Sake Brewery is located at the foot of Mt. Katsuragi in Nara and has become a symbol of traditional sake culture. The brewery cherishes its heritage while actively seeking new product developments and improving its sales framework for global outreach. By balancing tradition with innovation, Umenoyado is committed to expanding its market presence and developing high-value products tailored to diverse consumer needs.

Purpose of the Investment

The investment by Hitomairu is part of a broader strategy to reposition itself within the changing landscape of the beverage industry. This move highlights Hitomairu's dedication to creating high-quality products that resonate with an evolving customer base. By bolstering its ties with Umenoyado, Hitomairu not only aims to strengthen its operational synergies with its group companies, including Kaku Yasu, but also to foster new avenues for collaborative growth. This relationship aligns with Hitomairu's goal to support the development of dining and drinking culture, ultimately leading to enhanced value creation in the marketplace.

Future Outlook

The collaboration with Umenoyado Sake Brewery represents a vital investment that underscores Hitomairu's commitment to enhancing long-term sustainability and cultural development in the beverage industry. By continuously nurturing relationships with prestigious breweries, Hitomairu is positioned to contribute positively to the alcohol and dining industries' sustainable growth. The company recognizes that aligning producers and distributors is key to fostering a thriving beverage culture in Japan and beyond.

In conclusion, Hitomairu's strategic investment in Umenoyado signals a transformative approach not just for its own growth, but also for the sake industry at large. With a forward-thinking outlook, Hitomairu is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Japanese drinking culture.

About Umenoyado Sake Brewery

• - Headquarters: 27-1 Terakubo, Katsuragi City, Nara Prefecture
• - CEO: Kayo Yoshida
• - Founded: 1893
• - Business: Manufacturing and selling sake, liqueurs, and various beverages
• - Website: Umenoyado

About Hitomairu

• - Headquarters: 2-3-1 Toshima, Kita-ku, Tokyo
• - CEO: Hiroyuki Maegaki
• - Founded: June 15, 1982 (originally November 1, 1921)
• - Business: Operations of sales platforms, business strategy development, and management
• - Website: Hitomairu