Message from the President (3/3 pages)
From a Long-Term Perspective
Zensho also pursues business measures for sustainable growth in its international trading relations, particularly, in the field of raw materials procurement. The reason why we search the world for high-quality foods and open up new procurement routes is that this is the only way to ensure a continued stable supply of high-quality food. In times such as the recent global economic downturn, a malfunctioning of global capital flows may lead to sharp fluctuations in certain food commodity prices. There are also food materials risk factors with an impact on safety assurance, such as the issue of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE, "Mad Cow Disease") in relation to American beef.
As I outlined previously, our mission is to act with the safety of our customers as the No. 1 priority, while consistently providing delicious food at affordable prices. Stable procurement of raw materials from around the world is essential to achieving this.
Another specific measure for sustainable international trade is Zensho's unique Fair Trade system. I believe that establishing lasting direct trade partnerships through collaboration with developing countries from a long-term perspective helps create mutually beneficial relationships. Such relationships support developing countries as they build economic independence while giving us the benefit of highquality raw materials procurement. I believe that to deepen this framework it is important to go beyond a simple trade in products. By moving forward with Fair Trade, we can nurture the management capabilities of people in producer countries, vital for prosperous development in such countries.
Creating New Value in the Food Field
Zensho works to expand its business operations by making strategic investments in growth categories while focusing on structural transformations in markets. The number of Sukiya restaurants in Japan totaled 1,380 locations at the end of January 2010. The recognition we have received is a source of pride and gives us a great sense of responsibility. Our mission is to continue to pursue the creation of a social infrastructure to provide safe and delicious food at affordable prices, anytime and anywhere.
The Zensho Group seeks to become the "World's No. 1 Company in the Food Industry" under its vision to "realize a world free from hunger and poverty." We will continue to be a company that transforms the food industry on the global stage and creates new value.
- Zensho Group CEO
- Kentaro Ogawa
