Bringing a fresh perspective to traditional industries: Tatami manufacturers take on the challenge of developing global markets.Oino Co., Ltd.

Could you tell us what led you to introduce STANDAGE's automated trading service this time?

Our company has been involved in the manufacturing and sales of tatami mats for many years, but in recent years, the entire tatami industry has been experiencing a steady decline in demand, which has caused us concern. We felt that in order to pass on tatami, a traditional Japanese culture, to the next generation, it was necessary to cultivate new markets, but there were limits to what we could do with the product knowledge and technical skills we had cultivated domestically.

In fact, within the industry, "tatami shops venturing overseas" have been attracting attention, and as we saw these movements through the media, we gradually began to consider expanding overseas ourselves. However, to be honest, we had absolutely no know-how regarding international trade, and we didn't know where to begin.

Amidst all this, we received a call from a sales representative at STANDAGE. After hearing their explanation of "Omakase Trading," we were attracted to the idea of being able to entrust all of our trading operations to them, and after internal discussions, we decided to implement it. The timing was also perfect, as we were beginning to see potential for overseas expansion in the products we handle.

What exactly did it entail?

Our company is primarily craftsman-centered, making it difficult to allocate sufficient resources to sales and approaching overseas markets. We also felt that exhibiting at trade shows was a high hurdle. However, when we actually exhibited at Maison & Objet (Europe's largest interior design trade fair held in Paris, France), STANDAGE handled everything from the on-site exhibition procedures and product PR to on-site support. It was an invaluable help.

After the exhibition, we were able to receive specific advice based on the actual feedback and reactions we received, and this feedback helped us set new goals for the next step.

What effects have you seen since implementing it?

The contract began in August 2024, and while we haven't yet seen any tangible results, discussions about the next steps are already in full swing within the company. A major takeaway from our first exhibition was the realization that our products are attracting a certain level of interest in overseas markets.

Our goal for the next two years of this contract is to establish ourselves as an international brand, and we intend to steadily make preparations to achieve this. We would also appreciate your continued support in expanding our sales channels.

What kind of support do you expect from Omakase Trading in the future?

We believe that the options available after the termination of our contract with STANDAGE are an important point to consider when planning our future business strategy. For example, if you could inform us in advance about possibilities such as a continuing partnership or a spot contract, it would help us prepare for the next stage more smoothly.

Comment from Mr. Nabeya Oino

I believe the greatest appeal of "Omakase Trading" is the system in place that allows you to entrust everything to them with complete peace of mind. Even with limited knowledge and experience in overseas markets, like us, STANDAGE has created the perfect environment for us to take our first step into the international market.

What impressed me most was that the person in charge actually visited the site and provided real market feedback. I would recommend that companies considering overseas expansion first consult with STANDAGE.