#Japan #Tokyo #New Employees #KAI Group #KAI Family

KAI Group Welcomes New Employees for 2026

On April 1, 2026, KAI Group, a renowned global cutlery manufacturer, held its new employee induction ceremony at the KAI Industries headquarters. This year’s ceremony marked a significant milestone as the company welcomed 21 new graduates, who will play an essential role in shaping the future of the 118-year-old establishment.

The ceremony was graced by prominent figures including Hiroaki Endo, President and COO of KAI Group, along with the chairman and vice president. Addressing the new hires, Endo emphasized the importance of embodying three essential values: sincerity, humility, and gratefulness. He urged the new employees to maintain a positive mindset and strive to be at the forefront of change within the company.

In a heartfelt moment, Shuhei Nakanishi, the representative of the new hires, delivered a powerful speech declaring their commitment to the company’s values. Additionally, Daito Maehara, a second-year employee from the Production and Procurement Division, offered encouragement and shared insights drawn from his own experiences, offering invaluable advice to the newcomers.

To further welcome the new employees, the executive team presented each of them with a symbolic knife, engraved with their names and joining dates. This gesture represented the company’s commitment to supporting the new hires as they embark on their careers, embodying the motto “cutting through the future.”

Overview of the Ceremony

• - Date and Time: April 1, 2026, at 10 AM
• - Venue: KAI Industries Headquarters, Koyana Employee Hall
• - New Employees: 21 individuals (12 General Office positions, 8 Manufacturing Technicians, 1 Special Employment)

Ceremony Highlights

During the ceremony, President Endo shared the company’s storied history with attendees. KAI Group has always revered the spirit of skilled craftsmanship known as “Yokaji,” which traces its roots back to the swordsmiths of the Kamakura period. The tradition, originally focused on crafting samurai swords, evolved in the Meiji era as swordsmiths transitioned into producing everyday blades tailored to users’ needs. This philosophy centers around creating quality products that address individual user preferences, and it underpins the extensive range of over 10,000 products KAI Group offers today.

Endo elaborated on the group’s unwavering dedication to both preserving valuable traditions and adapting to contemporary shifts. The emphasis, he noted, remains on honed skills in cutting and shaving, while still innovating to meet modern consumer demands. KAI Group's mission encompasses sharpness and kindness, working hand-in-hand across various teams to ensure exceptional quality and technology are at the forefront of product development.

He reiterated the importance of gratitude towards ancestors, partners, and colleagues, encapsulated in the KAI Philosophy. This includes their unique approach termed DUPS³, which stands for Design, Uniqueness, Patent, Safety, Story, and Sustainability—key tenets shaping their development strategies.

President Endo also stressed a culture of collaboration, urging employees to respect one another and contribute as a cohesive unit. The adage “100 Steps of One Person vs. One Step of 100 People” encapsulates this ethos. While individual strengths are valuable, collective achievements drive progress.

Key Attitudes for Future Success

As the new members of the KAI Family step into their careers, Endo highlighted three fundamental attitudes crucial for their development:
1. Sincerity: Approach every interaction with genuine care and thoughtfulness.
2. Humility: Maintain a humble disposition, regardless of position or experience.
3. Gratitude: Always express appreciation towards others.

Endo expressed pride in the company’s culture, recognizing the admirable sincerity and earnestness of the future generation. He encouraged the new hires to cherish their individuality while contributing to KAI Group’s legacy and continued growth.

The journey of being a KAI employee progresses rapidly, and Endo concluded with an inspiring message: “Make each day count, and together, let’s foster the KAI Group’s ongoing success and advancement.” Congratulations were once again offered to the new recruits as they begin this exciting chapter in their professional lives.

KAI Group, established in 1908, is globally recognized for its versatile product range that includes grooming tools, kitchen knives, and medical instruments. The company is based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, and aims to continually innovate while honoring its proud heritage in knife manufacturing.

For inquiries, please contact:
KAI Group Customer Service
〒101-8586 Tokyo, Chiyoda, Iwamoto-cho 3-9-5
TEL: 0120-016-410
www.kai-group.com