The relationship between Daiso and me started 44 years ago in 1978. When we were working at a pop-up store on the squares and event floors of supermarkets for a week at a time, there were sometimes no items to sell because the shipments were not delivered on time. We were desperate. Everyone discussed the idea that “It’s not this or that” and strived to make progress. That’s what our company was like. There were no quotas or budgets. We just moved forward—
“Let’s work hard and see this through together.”
“We should not expect too much. Just do things one by one.”
Since our establishment, this mindset has been our identity. Everybody gets together and works hard. We did not have time to look back.

After becoming a buyer, I re-examined many items with the manufacturers. The more you think, the better the items get. A good product is a matter of how many times you can repeat that it is better than the previous one with the manufacturer.

A goal is probably important, but first you must do what you can do right now. Let someone else evaluate your actions. You should be down to earth and gradually build up your strength and grow. I often said, “Do what you can do now!” to other employees.

When I started, I was a stall keeper. I’m very proud of Daiso because it is still loved by locals and still satisfying customers.