2023: A Year of Reflection and Ambition for Yanase's Future

In the annual New Year's address, CEO Takamasa Morita reflected on the tumultuous global economic landscape of the previous year. As the term 'economic security' grows in significance, it underlines the increasing division within the global community. Ongoing conflicts and the evolving war situations have complicated supply chain issues, resulting in heightened geopolitical risks. The established global rules and ethical standards, shaped by years of history and lessons, now seem increasingly fragile, overshadowed by a rise in nationalism and self-interest.

Morita expressed concerns about transmitting the foundational values of worldview, national perspective, and ethics to future generations. The essence of what we wish to pass down appears compromised in the current climate.

On a domestic scale, Japan’s economy is slowly moving beyond the exceptionally low interest rates that plagued it for three decades. However, the nation grapples with a persistent yen depreciation that poses significant challenges to domestic consumption. To restore economic growth and elevate Japan's standing globally, Morita emphasized the necessity for Japan to transition from an export-driven economy to one propelled by consumer demand, ensuring a robust cycle of expenditure and reinvestment by the affluent.

Against this backdrop, Yanase is dedicated to contributing to the economy and society through vehicle sales to affluent customers and comprehensive after-sales services. Morita instilled a deep sense of pride and responsibility in retail, asserting that “retail is a profession that contributes to society.” Under the mission of creating a life filled with “dreams” and “excitement” through vehicle ownership, he urged employees to maintain focus on their obligations, promising unwavering execution of their goals.

The core of Yanase’s mission is rooted in “person-to-person sales,” enhanced through hybrid management that incorporates digital transformational investments. The outcomes of these initiatives, Morita believes, will be realized in 2026, aligning customer satisfaction with the ambition of becoming an unparalleled force in the market and enhancing Yanase's corporate value.

Celebrating its 111th anniversary this year, Yanase reflects on the results of the previous year's 110th anniversary initiatives. The vision of the founder, Chotaro Yanase, who believed that “vehicles enrich society and the lives of individuals,” has endured through time. This foundational vision, coupled with the company’s adaptability to the tides of change, has been pivotal in Yanase’s longevity and success over the past 111 years.

As Morita prepares for the year ahead, he reaffirms his commitment, alongside the Yanase Group employees, to fostering happiness for both staff and their families. His closing remarks conveyed a hopeful outlook for the forthcoming year, urging everyone to stay united in their endeavors to elevate Yanase even further.