ZENB Triumphs with Silver Award at Japan Branding Awards 2025

ZENB Wins Silver at Japan Branding Awards 2025

On February 20, 2026, ZENB Japan, based in Handa, Aichi Prefecture, proudly received the Silver award at the Japan Branding Awards 2025. This prestigious award, organized by Interbrand Japan, recognizes exceptional branding efforts in businesses, highlighting organizations that consistently create societal value through their brand strategies. Since its inception in 2018, the awards have aimed to evaluate and celebrate companies excelling at branding, with new criteria being adapted for 2024 to address the evolving landscape of branding in uncertain times.

The Story Behind the Award

ZENB has cultivated a brand philosophy centered around the concept of “redefining how we eat.” By focusing on utilizing plants—especially vegetables and legumes—in their entirety, ZENB promotes a sustainable way of eating that is both delicious and healthy. Their products emphasize the natural flavors and nutritional benefits of plants while steering clear of animal-based ingredients. The extensive product portfolio includes staples, side dishes, and snacks, and is marketed through e-commerce alongside pop-up stores and experiential events to engage consumers on a tangible level.

The company adopts the belief that branding is not just a special initiative but a core aspect of business operations. This philosophy is manifested across all organizational departments including R&D, marketing, sales, and back-office functions, where daily activities contribute to the brand's strategic goals. It is this consistent approach and execution that garnered recognition, serving as a prime example of how branding is effectively integrated into the fabric of a business.

Judges' Praise

The panel of judges remarked on how ZENB has evolved since its founding in 2019, noting that product development and the diversification of their offerings have been firmly rooted in the brand’s defining concept. From its inception, the brand has demonstrated how “branding is business itself” through robust execution and effective outcomes. Furthermore, as part of the Mitsukan Group, ZENB has engaged with global challenges, successfully creating and expanding new value—making it a valuable case study for many Japanese companies.

Insights from CEO Masukazu Hamana

Masukazu Hamana, President of ZENB Japan, expressed great pride in the award, attributing it to the commitment to harmonizing “deliciousness and sustainability” that the brand has championed. He noted that the success of ZENB is a collaborative achievement built upon the daily endeavors of the team and the support of their customers. Moving forward, ZENB aims to continually innovate and present new food value by maximizing the use of entire plants, contributing to the enjoyment of food, health, and the future of our planet.

More About ZENB

ZENB offers a diverse range of plant-based products free from animal ingredients and minimal additives, ensuring that the authentic flavors and nutrients are preserved. Their offerings include ZENB noodles, bread, and chips made from yellow peas—considered healthier and more environmentally friendly than traditional grains. Additionally, they provide ZENB curry, soup, and baton snacks, using whole vegetables often disregarded as waste.

For more information on ZENB, visit their official site and follow them on social media: