We help medium to large-sized foreign firms expand and optimize their footprints in the perplexing Japanese market. With 20+ years in the trenches navigating Japan Inc., we know what lasts, what languishes, when to pivot, and when to start from scratch.
Paul Kraft
Japan Market Consultant &
Founder at JapanIQ
Drove HARIBO gummi bears from #8 to #1 in 4 years
Led Starbucks’ CPG entry into the Japanese mass market and dept. stores – including #1 at CVS
Launched the Honey Baked Ham restaurant chain – their first-ever international market
Grew Nestle Nespresso’s Japanese foodservice business by 20+%
With more wins in progress...
Results speak louder than words (even in Japanese).
I am here to do hard things. I roll up my sleeves and figure it out. No cushy expat roles for me.
Is your business lost in translation? I’ll help you navigate Japan’s complex, sometimes maddening landscape. I’ll identify your best partners, hire, sell, market, nemawashi, negotiate contracts, train people, and spend hours ensuring the Japan team and HQ are aligned. I’ll be shoulder-to-shoulder with your customers and partners – daily, if necessary.
Brand Experience
Straight from Japan.
Bridging the Market Gap
Expats from your U.S. headquarters are too removed from the culture to achieve market success. Hiring locals has its internal challenges, too. You need a bridge—someone who’s respected and has credibility with both sides of the relationship.
Work My Network
Want to hire a merchandiser to set up displays in the candy aisle of 500 stores throughout Japan? Want to know the best advertising and PR freelancers? Looking to recruit, hire? Do an event at an Embassy? Need help with patents, trademarks, and IP? Want to talk to any of the big trading houses? Launch in Costco after only one meeting? You name it, I’ve got you covered.
Services Available:
Fractional Country Management
The Japanese market can be rewarding, but is highly fragmented and requires a specialized approach. Let us help you succeed in Japan.
Strategic Projects
As an integral part of your existing team, we can work to hit your specific goals and KPIs. We bring and extensive set of resources and connections to the table.
