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Celebrating a Legacy: Folk Co., Ltd. and Its Recognition

Founded in 1903, Folk Co., Ltd., a prestigious uniform manufacturer based in Chiyoda, Tokyo, recently achieved a remarkable milestone. The company was awarded the 'Over 100 Years of Business Award', recognizing its outstanding contributions to the industry for over 123 years. This prestigious acknowledgment was bestowed upon them at a ceremony held on March 23, 2026, in Kazo City, Saitama Prefecture.

The 'Over 100 Years of Business Award' is designed to honor companies that have surpassed the century mark in their operations, symbolizing their dedication to the growth and strength of the local economy. The initiative aims to promote pride in the community and ensure that the contributions of these businesses are recognized for future generations.

The award ceremony coincided with 'Kazo Citizens' Day', a day established in 2010 to commemorate the merger of municipalities in the region. It was a day filled with pride, appreciation, and reflection on the journey of Folk Co., Ltd.

The Roots of Folk

Folk Co., Ltd. traces its origins back to 1903 when its founder, Tokusaburo Koyano, established the 'Koyano Shoten', initially operating as a textile dealer. Over the decades, the company navigated multiple transformations, adapting to societal changes and industry demands. In the 1930s, responding to the growing need for ready-made clothing, Folk transitioned from fabric trading to manufacturing uniforms.

By 1943, the company restructured into a limited partnership, and in 1951, Tokusaburo's son, Kiyoshi Koyano, took the helm. Under his leadership, the company entered into a partnership with Toray Industries during Japan's post-war economic boom. This collaboration marked the beginning of Folk’s journey into office uniforms, tapping into the increasing participation of women in the workforce during this transformative era.

As a testament to their commitment to quality and craftsmanship, Folk Co., Ltd. was designated as a standard factory in Saitama Prefecture in 1977. This recognition solidified their reputation in the industry and demonstrated their unwavering dedication to excellence.

Innovation and Expansion

Folk has continuously evolved to meet the demands of changing times. In 2001, the company made its foray into the medical apparel sector, further diversifying its offerings. A significant milestone was reached in 2009 when Folk entered a partnership with PANTONE, revolutionizing the uniform culture by introducing colorful scrubs to the medical field, moving away from traditional white lab coats.

The company firmly believes that innovation is crucial, and they have consistently adapted to the changing preferences of their customers. With a commitment to quality, Folk has maintained a strong focus on developing products that resonate with the needs of modern professionals.

A Word from the President

President Jun Koyano expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, "We are truly honored to be selected for the 'Over 100 Years of Business Award'. This accolade reflects our long-standing commitment to supporting workers through our uniforms and our adaptability in product and service development to meet the changes of our times." He emphasized that this recognition will inspire the company to consistently leverage its manufacturing expertise and on-site insights, ensuring that they remain attuned to customer needs while contributing to local and industrial development.

In conclusion, Folk Co., Ltd.'s legacy of over a century is not merely a testament to its durability and resilience, but also to its unyielding commitment to quality and innovation in the uniform manufacturing industry. The future looks promising for this venerable company as it continues its journey, setting new standards and fostering pride in the community they serve.