19-2-2024 (TOKYO) In a poignant moment for the retail industry, the world bids adieu to Hirotake Yano, the visionary mind behind Daiso Industries Co., as he succumbs to heart failure at the age of 80. His indomitable spirit reshaped budget shopping not only in Japan but globally, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to thrive.
Hirotake Yano was not merely the founder of a store; he was the architect of an empire. Commencing with a lone store in Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture, in 1991, Yano’s revolutionary concept of the 100-yen shop addressed an unmet need for affordable goods of uncompromising quality amidst Japan’s decades-long deflation. This vision resonated with consumers, propelling Daiso into a retail giant with 4,360 stores in Japan and 990 overseas by the close of 2023. The iconic yellow and green banner of Daiso now stands as a symbol of quality and affordability.
Yano’s vision transcended Japan’s borders. The inaugural international Daiso store in Taiwan in 2001 marked the onset of the brand’s global journey. Under Yano’s guidance, Daiso became a worldwide phenomenon, breaking cultural and geographical barriers with its universal appeal for affordable and quality products. This global expansion mirrored Yano’s belief in the universal desire for value, propelling Daiso into becoming a household name in numerous countries.
In 2018, Hirotake Yano made the strategic decision to step down as president, passing the torch to his son, Seiji. This transition heralded a new era for Daiso, preserving Yano’s legacy and principles. Under Seiji’s leadership, the company remains committed to the founding values of quality, affordability, and innovation. Daiso stands as a testament to Yano’s entrepreneurial spirit, forever altering the shopping experience for millions globally.
As news of Hirotake Yano’s passing reverberates, tributes flood in from around the world, underscoring the profound impact of his visionary approach. Daiso, the empire built from the ground up, stands as a vibrant reminder of what one person’s dream, determination, and innovation can accomplish. Yano’s journey from founding Yano Shoten in 1972 to creating a global retail phenomenon is not merely a tale of business success; it’s a narrative illustrating how a simple idea can brighten lives globally, one 100-yen item at a time.
