#Japan #Shibuya #byFood #TableCross #Food for Happiness

Tablecross Raises 640 Million Yen to Boost Culinary Tourism in Japan

Tablecross, the company behind the travel-focused food reservation platform byFood, has announced the successful completion of its Series B funding round, securing a total of 640 million yen ($5.9 million) in investment. This round was primarily led by Heritage Global Investment Holdings Pte. Ltd., along with participation from strategic investors like Sugashita Partners and Konnichi Hello, among others. The Japan Finance Corporation also took part by providing startup debt support.

The funds will be primarily utilized to enhance operations and accelerate the company’s mission of delivering valuable culinary experiences from various regions in Japan to international tourists. As the demand for inbound tourism grows, the company aims to highlight Japan’s diverse and sometimes hidden culinary treasures.

Commitment to Social Responsibility

Tablecross operates with the mission “Spreading happiness through food!” and has been actively involved in its “Food for Happiness” initiative, which provides meals to children in developing countries. Thanks to the community's support, the program recently reached a milestone of one million meals delivered.

CEO Kaoru Shogo expressed gratitude to all partners, restaurants, investors, and travelers who contributed to this achievement. The company is committed to further improving its platform and expanding its business not just for growth but to continue making a social impact through food.

Strategic Aims Behind Fundraising

Understanding the vast potential of unharnessed culinary experiences in Japan, Tablecross focused its fundraising efforts on strengthening its business and platform. The company’s strategic vision emphasizes hiring key personnel who align with its mission rather than engaging in massive recruitment drives. They are looking for individuals who can help achieve a transaction value of 10 billion yen.

Tablecross encourages those passionate about connecting Japan’s allure with the world, contributing to meaningful work in tourism, food, and experiences, and interested in being part of a growing startup to join their team.

Future Expansion: Connecting Japan and the World through Food

Japan is home to numerous untold stories about its culinary producers and undiscovered experiences. By collaborating with local partners nationwide, Tablecross aims to generate new food experiences that will showcase regional values to a global audience.

Potential combinations for innovative experiences include:

• - Food and Sports
• - Food and Entertainment or IP
• - Food and Traditional Culture
• - Food and Shrines or Temples
• - Food and Nature or Primary Industries

As a cornerstone of cultural exchange, these narratives will offer international visitors fresh opportunities for exploration and engagement while also supporting Japan's goal of attracting 60 million tourists by 2030 through increased culinary appeal.

Leadership Remarks

CEO Kaoru Shogo remarked, “Reaching the milestone of providing one million meals and securing this new round of funding is a testament to the collective effort of all who support us.” He highlighted that Japan holds many culinary experiences yet to be discovered and expressed their commitment to delicately unearthing these values and sharing them globally.

COO Tosho Serkan added, “There’s a wealth of undiscovered food culture and experiences across Japan, and our goal is to showcase these values effectively. Through this funding, we’ll enhance our ability to narrate the unique attractions of each region, continually connecting the world to Japan through food and fostering new encounters.”

About byFood

byFood is a comprehensive platform for foreign visitors, offering reservations for food experiences, restaurants, and grocery purchases across Japan. The platform strives to provide a seamless way for travelers to experience, reserve, and purchase Japanese culinary culture in multiple languages, primarily English.

Before traveling, it serves as an online media source promoting Japanese cuisine and regional attractions. During trips, byFood supports visitors' culinary needs through experience reservations, enhancing their stay in Japan. Additionally, byFood engages with the global audience through its YouTube channel, “Japan by Food,” and various social media platforms.

For more information about byFood, visit their website or check out their YouTube channel.

Company Overview

Company Name: Tablecross Inc.
CEO: Kaoru Shogo
COO: Tosho Serkan
Headquarters: 5-27-5 Sendagaya, Shibuya, Tokyo, Link Square Shinjuku WeWork 16F
Website: Tablecross