#Japan #Kumamoto #Genki Global #Hirayama #sustainable salmon

Sustainable Salmon Farming Initiative Launched in Kumamoto

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Genki Global Dining Concepts, based in Tokyo, has partnered with Hirayama, a Kumamoto-based aquaculture company, to establish a new salmon farming initiative in Yatsushiro, Kumamoto. This project aims to meet the growing demand for high-quality, sustainably sourced salmon while ensuring environmental conservation. As a leader in Japan's dining sector, Genki Global is committed to enhancing product quality by fostering transparent relationships with local producers.

Objectives of the Initiative

The global seafood demand is surging, yet natural resource depletion due to overfishing and climate change threatens supply chains. In Japan, where sushi and traditional dishes heavily feature salmon, there is a significant reliance on imports. This creates volatile risks regarding price fluctuations and quality inconsistencies. Thus, the importance of domestic, sustainable production methods is crucial. The partnership between Genki Global and Hirayama intends to establish a reliable and sustainable salmon supply while also creating a new food culture for future generations.

Benefits of Land-Based Salmon Farming

Land-based aquaculture enables precise control over water quality and temperature, ensuring stable production levels. Furthermore, it reduces risks from parasites and pathogens, contributing to environmental sustainability. This technique also enables production closer to consumption points, allowing consumers to enjoy fresher salmon. Hirayama's unique flow-through method employs fresh underground water continuously, providing a clean and oxygen-rich environment for the salmon. This minimizes stress on the fish, boosting their health and reducing the need for antibiotics. Consequently, they produce high-quality salmon known for its rich flavor and clear aftertaste.

Hirayama's Distinct Advantages

Hirayama has a proven track record in sustainable aquaculture, utilizing Kumamoto’s abundant water resources. Their premium Momotarō Salmon® is renowned for its succulent taste, free from undesirable odors, achieved through strict water quality management and innovative breeding techniques. This local enterprise’s meticulous production methods have earned it acclaim from both domestic and international markets. Genki Global aims to introduce this exceptional product line into its restaurant chains, including the well-known Uobei.

The Significance of This Partnership

As a sushi-centric restaurant chain, Genki Global emphasizes providing meals that combine taste with safety and reliability. The collaboration with Hirayama merges the latter's aquaculture technology with Genki’s procurement and sales network to create a consistent supply of high-quality salmon. This initiative is set to pioneer a new model for sustainable ingredient use within the dining industry.

Future Outlook

The partnership starts with 36 tanks exclusively for salmon breeding, with plans for substantial expansion on the horizon. There are intentions to explore aquaculture for other fish species and to replicate Hirayama’s successful methodologies in various regions. The long-term vision includes worldwide marketing of Japan's land-based salmon, bolstering the nation’s culinary repertoire on the global stage.

Future Plans

• - Groundbreaking ceremony scheduled for late October 2025.
• - Release event for intermediate fish expected next summer.
• - Gradual introduction of Momotarō Salmon to select locations.

Company Profiles

Hirayama Co., Ltd.

• - Location: 1543-1 Uchida, Kagamimach, Yatsushiro City, Kumamoto
• - Representative: Masaru Hirayama, CEO
• - Business Activities: Aquaculture, seafood sales, agriculture machinery, packaging, etc.

Genki Global Dining Concepts Inc.

• - Tokyo Stock Code: 9828
• - Location: 19th floor, Ueno Frontier Tower, 3-24-6 Ueno, Taito-ku, Tokyo
• - Founded: December 12, 1968
• - Established: July 26, 1979
• - Representative: Masanao Fujio, CEO
• - Business Activities: Management of restaurant chains
• - Corporate Philosophy: “We provide heartfelt dishes to create enjoyable moments and energize people around the world.”