Connecting Japanese Crafts to North American Buyers at NY NOW 2026 Summer
In the world of international trade, small and medium-sized manufacturers from Japan often encounter substantial challenges when trying to expand their reach into foreign markets, especially North America. To address these difficulties, Gojiai, a brand platform launched by BATOON, is offering support to these manufacturers by connecting them directly with buyers at prominent events. One such opportunity is the upcoming NY NOW 2026 Summer, which will take place from August 2 to 4, 2026, in New York City.
Gojiai acts as a bridge between Japanese manufacturers and North American buyers, providing comprehensive support in various areas crucial for successful market entry. The services include assistance in selecting merchandise tailored for the market, adjusting product designs, creating compelling public relations narratives, and handling on-site sales and orders. This comprehensive approach alleviates the stresses often associated with exporting goods, making it easier for manufacturers lacking expertise or manpower to make their first moves abroad.
BATOON, located in Meguro, Tokyo, is spearheaded by representative Kana Takahashi. With a background in graphic and product design, as well as experience as a buyer, Takahashi launched Gojiai to bridge the gap between Japanese craftsmanship and the North American marketplace. The need for such a platform arose from her observations of the fragility of traditional Japanese manufacturing while traveling through various production sites.
The NY NOW 2026 Summer exhibition stands as one of North America's largest trade events for home and lifestyle products. To ensure a supportive environment for exhibitors, Gojiai has limited the participation to just five manufacturers. This decision reflects their commitment to providing personalized assistance to each selected company. Every participant will receive dedicated support not just during the event but throughout the preparation process, including guidance on product presentation tailored to the North American audience.
The call for applications invites Japanese manufacturers producing a wide variety of lifestyle goods, irrespective of their brand status or size. Manufacturers are welcomed to submit individual items, OEM products, or even raw materials. There is no requirement for having a strong self-designed product, thereby encouraging a wide range of entries. Gojiai covers the purchase of items ordered during the exhibition, taking care of all subsequent export logistics.
The application deadline is set for March 31, 2026, and interested parties are encouraged to apply through the official Gojiai website or via email. A reasonable participation fee, varying from 90,000 yen depending on product size and the number of items, makes the opportunity accessible for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This fee structure aims to lower the barrier for entry, allowing even those manufacturers who may have previously struggled in overseas ventures to partake in this global marketplace.
For those who have questions or require further details, a remote information session is scheduled, with decisions on selected participants to be announced by the end of April.
Gojiai's initiative not only highlights the unique and rich quality of Japanese craftsmanship but also fosters international collaboration and growth for small manufacturers. Through platforms like Gojiai, the dream of entering the global market becomes achievable, allowing these artisans to share their culture and products with a wider audience.
With continued support, Gojiai exemplifies how a focus on partnerships and resources can make the journey into international markets less daunting, encouraging innovation and preservation of traditional crafts alongside modern market demands.
Gojiai acts as a bridge between Japanese manufacturers and North American buyers, providing comprehensive support in various areas crucial for successful market entry. The services include assistance in selecting merchandise tailored for the market, adjusting product designs, creating compelling public relations narratives, and handling on-site sales and orders. This comprehensive approach alleviates the stresses often associated with exporting goods, making it easier for manufacturers lacking expertise or manpower to make their first moves abroad.
BATOON, located in Meguro, Tokyo, is spearheaded by representative Kana Takahashi. With a background in graphic and product design, as well as experience as a buyer, Takahashi launched Gojiai to bridge the gap between Japanese craftsmanship and the North American marketplace. The need for such a platform arose from her observations of the fragility of traditional Japanese manufacturing while traveling through various production sites.
The NY NOW 2026 Summer exhibition stands as one of North America's largest trade events for home and lifestyle products. To ensure a supportive environment for exhibitors, Gojiai has limited the participation to just five manufacturers. This decision reflects their commitment to providing personalized assistance to each selected company. Every participant will receive dedicated support not just during the event but throughout the preparation process, including guidance on product presentation tailored to the North American audience.
The call for applications invites Japanese manufacturers producing a wide variety of lifestyle goods, irrespective of their brand status or size. Manufacturers are welcomed to submit individual items, OEM products, or even raw materials. There is no requirement for having a strong self-designed product, thereby encouraging a wide range of entries. Gojiai covers the purchase of items ordered during the exhibition, taking care of all subsequent export logistics.
The application deadline is set for March 31, 2026, and interested parties are encouraged to apply through the official Gojiai website or via email. A reasonable participation fee, varying from 90,000 yen depending on product size and the number of items, makes the opportunity accessible for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This fee structure aims to lower the barrier for entry, allowing even those manufacturers who may have previously struggled in overseas ventures to partake in this global marketplace.
For those who have questions or require further details, a remote information session is scheduled, with decisions on selected participants to be announced by the end of April.
Gojiai's initiative not only highlights the unique and rich quality of Japanese craftsmanship but also fosters international collaboration and growth for small manufacturers. Through platforms like Gojiai, the dream of entering the global market becomes achievable, allowing these artisans to share their culture and products with a wider audience.
With continued support, Gojiai exemplifies how a focus on partnerships and resources can make the journey into international markets less daunting, encouraging innovation and preservation of traditional crafts alongside modern market demands.
Topics Consumer Products & Retail）
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