#Ireland #Dublin #NEXTAGE #Wasabi

NEXTAGE Takes a Leap into European Wasabi Market

In a significant move to expand its reach, NEXTAGE, a Tokyo-based company known for its innovative wasabi cultivation techniques, has inaugurated its first overseas office in Dublin, Ireland. This strategic decision aims to tap into the European food market by establishing NEXTAGE Lab Inc. by August 2025. With rising demand for authentic Japanese cuisine across Europe, particularly for high-quality wasabi, NEXTAGE is committed to unlocking new opportunities for its unique indoor growing modules.

Why Dublin?

Dublin was selected for this venture due to four compelling factors:
1. Strategic Location for EU Market: Dublin offers exceptional access to the EU, allowing seamless business operations and logistics in both EU countries and the UK, post-Brexit.
2. Favorable Climate for Wasabi Cultivation: The marine climate of Dublin provides ample water resources and stable temperatures, which are ideal for growing wasabi. The mild winters and cool summers make it a fitting environment for high-quality production.
3. Existing Local Workforce: Many current NEXTAGE employees reside in Dublin, which will help fast-track the establishment process and optimize operational costs.
4. Proximity to Tech Industry: Dublin is home to numerous European headquarters of IT companies and a government that actively supports tech startups, paving the way for innovation in agricultural technology.

Dual Purpose: Showroom and Cultivation Facility

NEXTAGE's Dublin base will serve as both a cultivation facility and a showroom. The company plans to demonstrate that their wasabi growing techniques can be consistently reproduced outside Japan, ensuring steady quality. Additionally, the location will function as a showcase for potential clients in Europe, including restaurants, wholesalers, chefs, and other food industry professionals, to experience the brand's dedication to quality first-hand.

Insights from the Leadership

Takuya Nakamura, CEO of NEXTAGE, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the global expansion:

> "The wasabi market in Europe and the US is coming to the forefront. By establishing our overseas base, we aim to gain a more profound understanding of the environment surrounding wasabi, thereby accelerating our global expansion. The demand for high-quality wasabi has significantly increased due to the growing popularity of sushi and traditional Japanese cuisine worldwide. We've received numerous inquiries about the availability of our farmed wasabi, and we believe that by introducing our automated cultivation technology to Europe, we can share Japanese food culture while providing new value to the local food industry."

Yuya Kikuzawa, Director of NEXTAGE Lab Inc., echoed these sentiments:

> "Japanese cuisine, from casual eateries to high-end sushi restaurants, is well-loved in Europe. However, we are not currently meeting the authentic needs for real wasabi in the local market. While wasabi is typically seen as a condiment in Japan, it has tremendous potential as an essential ingredient. I firmly believe that we are taking a first step toward opening new doors in Europe, a continent rich in diverse culinary traditions. We are excited to challenge ourselves to create a sustainable industry in Dublin using technology that bridges the gap between Japanese agriculture and international markets."

Company Overview

Founded in 2018, NEXTAGE specializes in agri-tech solutions, primarily focusing on mobile agricultural solutions, next-generation research and development, and wasabi distribution. Their unwavering commitment to quality and innovation is exemplified through their widespread operations, including an online wasabi shop at wasabi365nx.base.shop.

Company Headquarters:

• - Name: NEXTAGE Co., Ltd.
• - Location: Tokyo, Japan

- Address: 2-13-4 Yutenji, Meguro-ku, Tokyo, 5F POINTLINE YUTENJI

• - European Office: NEXTAGE Lab Inc., DCU Alpha, Old Finglas Rd, Glasnevin, Dublin, Ireland.

With their ambitious plans, NEXTAGE is poised to make a significant impact on the European wasabi market and provide high-quality wasabi solutions that could enhance the culinary landscape across nations. The upcoming establishment not only signifies a growth opportunity for NEXTAGE but also reflects the increasing global appreciation for Japanese gastronomy.