We aim to provide a level of excitement that goes beyond imagination.

As the store manager of the Sendai branch, I am responsible for all aspects of store operations, including customer service, sales, staff training, and merchandising.

As our branch is located far from the head office, daily operations often require on-the-spot decisions and responses to irregular tasks. My main role is to understand the overall situation of the store and create an environment where customers can feel comfortable visiting.

Also, as Kadoya is not a large corporation with many employees, I feel that the scope of work each individual handles is relatively broad. In addition to day-to-day store operations, I am sometimes involved in company-wide tasks such as event planning and proposals for new products.

It is also an important part of my job to not keep the opinions and insights gained from interacting with customers at the store to myself, but to utilize them in events and product development.

[What are Kadoya's charms?]

Kadoya's greatest charms are its long history since its founding in 1935, and the achievements and expertise cultivated during that time.

To handle products in the category of motorcycle wear, and leather in particular, a wide range of specialized knowledge is required, including material characteristics, sizing, functionality when riding, repairs, and maintenance. Kadoya has accumulated knowledge and experience through many years of product development and interaction with customers.

Another major strength is having our own factory at the head office, which handles the production of custom-made items and repairs. We don't just sell products; we can create an outfit tailored to the customer's wishes and provide long-term support through repairs and customizations even after purchase. I feel that this system and technology are directly linked to the appeal and reliability of Kadoya products themselves.

On the other hand, we are not a company that is bound only by our past achievements and traditions. While building upon what we have cultivated over many years, we can take on new projects and unprecedented initiatives if they are backed by enthusiasm and sound reasoning. I believe that our attitude of valuing history while continuously evolving to meet the demands of the times is also one of Kadoya's charms.

[What is rewarding, fascinating, or interesting about your job?]

As a customer service job, I feel the most rewarded when I can make customers happy. In particular, the moment I realize that "they were satisfied precisely because of my suggestion" is the most joyous for a salesperson.

Kadoya is a brand with a strong focus on motorcycle apparel, but customers' motorcycle models, riding styles, and the seasons and situations in which they are used vary. Also, in recent years, an increasing number of people are looking for leather jackets not for riding motorcycles, but for everyday wear or fashion.

Therefore, customer service requires suggestions that consider not only functionality during riding, but also comfort, sizing, and styling from multiple perspectives. Even for the same product, the appropriate way to wear it and its perceived appeal differ among customers. The depth of this job lies in understanding their purpose and preferences through conversation and coming up with the optimal solution for that individual.

Furthermore, in addition to selling ready-made products, we also consult with customers about repairs, customizations, and original custom-made items tailored to their individual needs. I feel a great sense of accomplishment when I can utilize my specialized knowledge and experience to create something that exceeds the customer's expectations, and they are genuinely moved.

Also, the high degree of freedom in our corporate culture contributes to the interesting aspects of the job. While it's important to dedicate ourselves to daily store operations, there's an environment where proposals regarding "what's needed to increase store sales" or "what can be done to make KADOYA even better" are accepted, provided they are well-reasoned and logical.

I also find unique enjoyment in this job in the potential to acquire various knowledge and skills and apply them to customer service, store management, and planning.

[What do you value most in your work?]

I value continuous growth and having a broad perspective to recognize and consider various possibilities.

While continuing the same tasks allows for experience accumulation, it can also lead to fixed ways of thinking and perspectives. That's why I consciously strive to continuously update myself by looking at new information and different viewpoints, rather than relying solely on past knowledge and experience.

Having a broad perspective leads to discovering new proposals for improving the store and the company. Also, when customers consult us, it increases the likelihood of finding more suitable options or unprecedented solutions, without being constrained by a single way of thinking.

I always strive to learn, think, and continue to grow, not only to meet customer expectations but also to provide them with an experience that exceeds their imagination.