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Strike Corporation's Recognition of Wafukari Shrine

On March 8, 2026, Strike Corporation, headquartered in Tokyo, served as a platinum partner for the NIKKEI THE PITCH GROWTH final event and proudly awarded the 'Strike Prize' to Wafukari Shrine located in Kitakyushu, Moji Ward. The award ceremony featured a noteworthy moment shared between the president of Strike Corporation, Kunihiko Arai, and Kazunobu Takase, the 32nd chief priest of Wafukari Shrine.

The Reasons for Awarding the Strike Prize

Wafukari Shrine stood out for its innovative approach in addressing financial difficulties that many shrines encounter. By implementing unique business models—such as marine scattering of ashes and Shinto funerals—the shrine significantly increased its annual revenue from 5 million yen to a staggering 170 million yen. They have also exhibited forward-thinking by establishing a new company to share these successful business practices with shrines nationwide, aiming to solve issues within the entire industry. This vision aligns perfectly with the purpose of the 'Strike Prize,' which seeks to honor those tackling regional challenges with distinctive growth models.

Moreover, during the NIKKEI THE PITCH GROWTH final event, Wafukari Shrine also secured the semi-grand prize, showcasing its strong position within the community and among various competitors.

What is NIKKEI THE PITCH GROWTH?

NIKKEI THE PITCH GROWTH is a pitch contest designed for business leaders and successors aiming for transformation and growth through business succession and M&A. Strike Corporation has endorsed this contest as a platinum partner, believing in the importance of supporting regional enterprises that contribute to sustainable economic development in Japan.

The 'Strike Prize' is awarded to organizations that strive to tackle local challenges through innovative business models and aim for robust growth. The finalists, each representing distinct blocks, have demonstrated pioneering technologies and ideas, embodying a strong commitment to enhancing their local economies and holding significant potential for Japan's future.

Moving forward, Strike Corporation is dedicated to helping these aspiring businesses achieve further growth through M&A and succession support. Additionally, the 'Strike Prize' was awarded to eight startups representing each block:

List of Winning Companies by Region

Hokkaido & Tohoku:
RESTA Co., Ltd.
Creating a sustainable welfare and employment model for home-based work support for people with disabilities.
RESTA

Kanto:
Yashima Foods Co., Ltd.
After the succession of a long-established tofu manufacturer, they launched a new brand, 'Shonan Tofu,' to signify their new beginning.
Yashima Foods

Chubu:
Marubishi Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
Their EC site 'ASNARO' is addressing manufacturing sector challenges by promoting local factory technologies.
Marubishi

Tokyo A:
Yakuzaiko Co., Ltd.
They have expanded new services such as online pharmacies following the business succession of a dispensing pharmacy.
Yakuzaiko

Tokyo B:
OLIENT TECH Co., Ltd.
Founded by graduates from prestigious institutions, they aim to create next-generation learning and working methods utilizing digital expertise.
OLIENT TECH

Kinki:
Higuchi Electronics Co., Ltd.
They offer solutions for human resource development in manufacturing with high-quality electronic product manufacturing to alleviate workforce shortages.
Higuchi Electronics

Chugoku Shikoku:
Ken Robotech Co., Ltd.
Developing collaborative robots to improve productivity and reduce burdens on construction sites.
Ken Robotech

Kyushu Okinawa:
ZIFISH Co., Ltd.
This company contributes to the sustainability of the fishing industry with a platform for distributing local fish products through technology.
ZIFISH

About Strike Corporation

Founded in July 1997 and known professionally for its M&A support, Strike Corporation is led by president Kunihiko Arai and is located on the 15th floor of Mitsui & Co., Ltd. Building in Otemachi, Tokyo.

Learn more about Strike Corporation on their official website: Strike Corporation.