Palsystem Kanagawa Launches New Local Support Theme in Catalog

New Local Support Theme in Palsystem Kanagawa's Catalog

Palsystem Kanagawa has unveiled an exciting addition to its product catalog, launching the 'Local Support' theme, effective May 25. This initiative aims to promote and showcase high-quality products made in Kanagawa Prefecture, thus supporting local industries. With this new addition, Palsystem takes a step further in its commitment to local consumption and production, leveraging the purchasing power of its users to bolster the regional economy.

The Significance of 'Local Support'

The catalog "Ii ne! Kanagawa" serves as a unique platform exclusively for Palsystem's members, featuring products that contribute to Kanagawa's food and industry ecosystem. Since its inception in 2017, the catalog has focused on three main themes: "Local Production for Local Consumption," "Exchange," and "Social Contribution." The introduction of "Local Support" aims to capitalize on regional craftsmanship, thus fostering a stronger local economy.

1. Local Production for Local Consumption: This theme emphasizes agricultural and marine products sourced from Kanagawa, ensuring their unique regional characteristics are highlighted.
2. Exchange: This theme facilitates direct interactions between producers and consumers, strengthening community ties in the process.
3. Social Contribution: Products focused on solving social issues, including environmental sustainability and welfare, fall under this category.

The newly adopted "Local Support" theme also features longstanding manufacturers based in Kanagawa, further diversifying the catalog's offerings.

Featuring Heritage Brands

Among the celebrated brands included in the initial rollout of the 'Local Support' theme are the Iwai Sesame Oil Co., established in 1857, and Kato Hyotaro Co., founded in 1850. These producers exemplify traditional craftsmanship and commitment to quality.

- Iwai Sesame Oil Co.: In this renowned company, skilled artisans meticulously roast sesame seeds and extract oil using a traditional pressing method. They filter the sesame oil without a centrifuge, allowing it to mature over more than two weeks. The result is a beautiful, aromatic amber oil that signifies a legacy of excellence.

- Kato Hyotaro Co.: This company is distinguished by its unique use of wooden barrels for miso production. The wooden barrels, aged over 90 years, harbor natural yeast and lactic acid bacteria, lending the miso a distinct flavor and depth. They steam domestic soybeans to lock in umami and aroma, ensuring a traditional, labor-intensive process for quality miso.

Diverse Range of Products

Additionally, the catalog showcases products produced by Joy Farm Odawara, which is committed to promoting direct exchanges between consumers and producers. Their offerings include a variety of citrus fruits and ume, creatively processed to enhance their value. Palsystem Kanagawa's subsidiary, Heart Coop Kanagawa, is also featured with its shiitake mushroom drying products, supporting employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Palsystem Kanagawa remains dedicated to supporting local industries by continuing to introduce products that embody the spirit of sustainable production and consumption. As they foster connections between consumers and producers, they actively contribute to the revitalization of Kanagawa's economy.