Japan Markets ViewESG A to Z Vol. 16
KURADASHI (2)

May 10, 2024

Topic

Introduction of B Corp certification obtained by Kuradashi (Ticker: 5884), a company committed to reducing food loss and supporting social contribution, and its future business development plans

Interview Summary

Is awareness changing these days, even in Japan, a leading food-loss country?: Government ministries are working on food loss. However, not many players other than Kuradashi have been addressing this issue for a long time. Therefore, we have received wide recognition from government ministries. In addition, consumers’ interest in food and their awareness of food loss increased as they spent more time at home during the COVID-19 pandemic.
What is the B Corp certification system? What were some of the challenges you faced in obtaining the certification?: B Corp certification is given to companies engaged in sustainable practices. Under this certification system, companies are assessed on the basis of their overall score in five categories: governance, employees, community, environment, and customers. We were attracted to B Corp certification because it allows us to demonstrate KURADASHI’s efforts through a single certification system. B Corp assesses our management philosophy, sustainable corporate governance, and future plans. Thus, our management team spent three years discussing before obtaining the certification, even though there was no right answer.
Are you actively working on efficient use of resources and food loss initiatives in your office as well?: Our employees are socially, environmentally, and economically conscious, pursuing not only profit but also contribution to society. The Kuradashi Challenge, implemented through the Kuradashi Fund, sends urban students to rural areas to help with farm work, simultaneously realizing both rural development as well as food and nutrition education at the same time.
You state three values on your website, along with your mission and vision. Could you tell us about these values?: Our three values are “Setting a precedent,” “Charge ahead at full speed,” and “Be cheerful, happy and energetic,” which are used as evaluation criteria in hiring and assessments. “Setting a precedent” aims to shape the future in an unprecedented manner. “Charge ahead at full speed” emphasizes a sense of urgency in support of Japan’s commitment to halve food loss by 2030. “Be cheerful, happy and energetic” expresses our commitment to our initiatives with a positive attitude.
You created a fund for your social contribution activities, and are using it for regional development, food bank support, food sustainability research groups, and SDGs education. Could you give us some specifics?: There are about 1,000 food banks nationwide, which collect and provide food. Kuradashi serves as a hub for these organizations. We also hold study sessions with renowned food manufacturers to discuss the sustainable food of the future.
How do you plan to further develop your business?: Kuradashi was listed on the TSE Growth Market on June 30, 2023. In the future, we aspire to become an infrastructure company that reduces food loss. We intend to engage in warehouse management and supply forecasting, leveraging data and IT for production volume adjustment and pricing.