Recently, we visited TOTO’s Shiodome Office (Tokyo Office) and had the opportunity to share lunch in the employee cafeteria with the Deputy General Manager of the Sales Headquarters, while exchanging ideas about corporate culture and technology development. TOTO is widely recognized for its fusion of tradition and innovation, valuing a culture of craftsmanship while incorporating the latest technologies. During our dialogue, we were able to gain a vivid understanding of how these dual pillars—product development and operational processes—are deeply rooted in the employees’ day-to-day thinking and work.
On the other hand, as a company that promotes AI utilization for the purpose of carrying on the legacy of unit-bath culture, we also shared our own initiatives and vision. It was an incredibly stimulating time as we explored opportunities for collaboration that leverage each other’s strengths and possibilities for creating new value.
Moreover, we were able to see firsthand how TOTO’s refined office environment and open employee cafeteria foster communication and spark new ideas. We strongly felt that a relaxed setting truly provides fertile ground for more creative ideas. Through our visit to TOTO’s Shiodome Office, we found ourselves resonating with the company’s commitment to combining tradition and innovation in pursuit of continued growth, and we renewed our determination to embark on further innovation ourselves.
Afterword
In fact, our company once had an employee cafeteria in our own building. Not only employees but also the general public could enjoy well-balanced meals there, and it became a hub for a variety of interactions, such as Christmas parties and mochi-pounding events involving employees’ children and local residents. For me, as a child at the time, it was like an amusement park. Looking back, I realize the incredible power of a place where people gather around food and share a relaxed atmosphere. I firmly believe that such “comfortable spaces” can give rise to innovative ideas and memorable experiences. Going forward, we intend to continue cherishing this concept of “comfortable space creation”.
