#Japan #Yokohama #Yokohama Vanilla #Yuto Takahashi #gift sweets

Yokohama Vanilla Secures 370 Million Yen in Series A Funding

Yokohama Vanilla, a prominent gift sweets brand based in Yokohama, Kanagawa, has successfully raised approximately 370 million yen through a Series A funding round. This funding follows its initial seed round announced in November 2024. The investment was secured from both new and existing investors through a third-party allocation of shares, marking a significant step in the company's strategic growth and operational enhancement.

Introduction of New and Existing Investors

Among the new investors in this round is JAFCO Group, Japan's largest venture capital firm, known for its extensive portfolio of over 1,000 companies. JAFCO is committed to fostering innovative technologies and services globally, with a focus on supporting entrepreneurs in their aspirations.

The existing shareholder, XTech Ventures, also plays a significant role in this funding. This independent venture capital firm focuses on seed and early-stage investments, driven by a mission to create a better future alongside entrepreneurs by utilizing their extensive knowledge and networks.

Objectives and Future Developments of the Funding

The capital raised will be allocated towards ambitious goals set for the company’s second term starting in October 2025, aiming for a six-fold increase in sales compared to the previous term. Key areas of investment include:

• - Talent Acquisition: Aiming to strengthen the organizational structure, with a pressing need to recruit a COO who can drive the company’s operations effectively.
• - Product Development: Continuous innovation to enhance the product line, including new offerings and improvements in manufacturing capabilities.
• - Brand Building: Investments will focus on establishing the identity of Yokohama Vanilla as synonymous with the city of Yokohama.

With the hiring of a well-experienced COO, the company believes it can transition into a more robust organization characterized by speed and execution power.

Progress and New Initiatives

Yokohama Vanilla is already advancing on the development of new products and intends to continuously launch them in the market. The company plans to actively expand its presence nationwide through pop-up stores, beginning with major locations such as JR Tokyo Station. This initiative aims to solidify the brand’s status as ‘the new standard gift sweet from Yokohama’ by reaching as many customers as possible.

The brand is also set to enhance its visibility through sponsorship activities with local sports teams such as the Yokohama DeNA BayStars, which started in July 2025. These actions aim to strengthen public recognition of Yokohama Vanilla as a vital part of Yokohama’s identity.

Future Outlook and Mission

Yokohama Vanilla aims to cultivate a community of challengers that collaborates to create premium experiences under the vision of becoming the 'happiest manufacturing team.' The upcoming second term will be pivotal for establishing the brand as Japan's top gift sweet, with ambitions to excel in brand recognition, sales points, and revenue. The company’s mission is to deliver 'delicious, fun, and joyful' experiences to the world.

Comments from Leadership

Yuto Takahashi, the CEO, expressed his gratitude towards investors JAFCO and XTech Ventures for their support throughout the process. He emphasized that this funding is crucial for Yokohama Vanilla's commitment to becoming the new standard for gift sweets from Yokohama. The company will prioritize recruiting talent, product development, and brand establishment as it embarks on this promising journey.

About Yokohama Vanilla

Yokohama Vanilla is a brand born from the vision of Yuto Takahashi, who meticulously developed the concept of their unique gift sweets. Collaborating with industry professionals, the company focuses on high-quality ingredients and precise production methods. The Salt Vanilla Financier, their flagship product, has garnered attention for its exceptional taste and has been recognized for achieving a Guinness World Record™ for sales within a limited time.

By leveraging the rich culinary heritage of Yokohama, the team at Yokohama Vanilla is earnest in their mission to not just create delightful products but also foster a community around an iconic brand emblematic of the city’s spirit.