#Japan #Retail Innovation #Takasaki #Maruoka Supermarket #Business Philosophy

Unveiling the Miracle of Maruoka Supermarket

Maruoka, located in Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture, has gained attention as a supermarket that defies the typical pricing strategies prevalent in today's market. Known as the 'miracle supermarket', Maruoka operates on the principle of selling only the finest products and adhering to a philosophy of authenticity.

The Japanese Association for Management Development and the Kansai Management Association are set to hold an on-site training workshop on March 5, 2026, offering a unique opportunity to experience Maruoka's impressive business model and product philosophy firsthand.

The Maruoka Philosophy

While many retailers focus on volume and low prices, Maruoka has chosen a different path. The supermarket's strategy revolves around quality and customer trust—elements that nurture a loyal customer base.

1. Direct Sourcing from Producers: The company’s president, Mamoru Maruoka, travels across the country to meet and evaluate producers, ensuring that only top-notch products make it to the shelves.
2. Minimalistic Store Display: The store maintains a serene shopping environment without gaudy promotional signs or discount labels, focusing instead on the inherent value of the products.
3. Unique Product Selection: By avoiding reliance on national brands, Maruoka curates a product lineup that is distinct and offers consumers a shopping experience that they cannot find elsewhere.
4. No Need for Advertising: Despite the lack of advertising or promotional efforts, Maruoka enjoys a steady flow of repeat customers from all over Japan.

This emphasis on quality over price has transformed Maruoka into a local powerhouse that attracts customers nationwide.

Learning from the Leader

The workshop will feature a keynote speech by Mr. Mamoru Maruoka, who will delve into the core strategies that allow his supermarket to thrive without falling into price wars. Participants can expect insights on:

• - Differentiation Strategy: What does it mean to stand apart in a marketplace driven by price competition?
• - Building Trust with Customers: The significance of a genuine product focus in cultivating trust.
• - Philosophy of Store Design: How to create a beloved store environment that promotes community loyalty.
• - Key Success Factors: Common traits shared by resilient businesses.
• - Fostering Relationships with Producers: The impact of cultivating honest and respectful partnerships.
• - Balancing Profit with Principles: Understanding the harmonious coexistence of profitability and ethical operations within retail.

From the moment they decided not to engage in price competition, Maruoka's journey demonstrates a commitment to doing what is right first, paving the way for robust business practices that other companies can learn from.

Experiencing Maruoka Firsthand

As part of this workshop, attendees will also get to tour the supermarket and observe:

• - The philosophy behind product displays
• - How to create a non-pushy shopping environment
• - Differences in customer interaction styles
• - Results from unique buyer activities
• - The overall atmosphere and demographic of the store's customer base

The strength of Maruoka comes from meticulous attention to detail in the retail environment, and feeling that “air” is the ultimate takeaway for participants.

Event Details

Date: March 5, 2026, from 1:20 PM to approximately 3:30 PM
Location: Supermarket Maruoka (Meet directly at the venue)
1174-1 Mukotaka-machi, Takasaki City, Gunma Prefecture (Approx. 15 minutes by taxi from JR Shinmaebashi Station)

Schedule:

• - 1:20 PM: Arrival at venue
• - 1:30 PM - 2:00 PM: Store tour
• - 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM: Speech by Chairman Maruoka, followed by a Q&A session
• - 3:30 PM: Conclusion and dispersal

Participation Fee: 58,000 yen (tax included) per participant. For two or more participants from the same company, 52,780 yen per person (tax included).

Capacity: Limited to 15 participants (first-come-first-served basis). Note that the event may be canceled if the minimum number of participants is not reached.

Organizers: Japanese Association for Management Development / Kansai Management Association
Registration: Register via this link. For inquiries, contact: [email protected]

About the Organizers

With a rich history spanning 70 years, the Japanese Association for Management Development has been at the forefront of Japan's management sector, committed to advancing management practices suitable for the times and supporting growth across domestic industries. They offer numerous events such as the National Managers’ Conference, which facilitates networking and knowledge exchange between industry leaders. Other services include tailored seminars and comprehensive support through seasoned consultants aimed at addressing various business challenges.

Contact Information:
JMDA / KMCA
Osaka Office: 3F Sankyo Umeda Building, 1-5 Doyama-cho, Kita-ku, Osaka, 530-0027
Tokyo Office: Room 215, BIZ SMART Kayabacho, 1-3-21 Niikawa, Chuo-ku, Tokyo, 104-0033
President: Takashi Torigoe
Established: 1953
Website: JMDA / KMCA