Canadian Companies that have expanded in Japan

In a world that is becoming more interconnected, venturing into foreign markets has become a vital strategy for businesses and investors. This is usually done through business expansion and portfolio diversification. While traditional destinations like the United States and European countries have always been popular choices, there is also a potential vibrant and dynamic market in Japan. Observing the increasing trend of Canadian foreign investment in the Japanese market, let us look into the expansion journeys of 3 Canadian companies that have successfully entered Japan.

Note: This blog post is created for informational purposes only. GLOBAL ANGLE is an independent entity and is not affiliated with the companies mentioned in this article. The information provided is based on publicly available sources and does not constitute endorsement or representation of these companies by GLOBAL ANGLE. Any views or opinions expressed in this blog post are solely those of GLOBAL ANGLE and do not necessarily reflect the views of the mentioned companies.

1. Canada Goose
   Canada Goose is a winter clothing manufacturing company headquartered in Canada. It opened its doors to Japan about 6 years ago in 2017. Last year, the company announced its expansion into the Japanese market through a joint venture with Sazaby League, a retailer based in Japan. The Canadian clothing company recognised the Japanese consumer audience, due to it being the one of the largest and most influential luxury markets in the world.
2. Maple Leaf Foods
   Maple Leaf Foods is a consumer-packaged food production MNC based in Canada. Entering Japan in 1980, the company has established its presence in the Japanese market. Maple Leaf Foods was the first Canadian packer and processor of pork to open a representative sales office in Japan. Since then, they have managed to build a strong customer base through a specialised sales force and form relationships with local logistics companies. Understanding the stakeholders involved in expanding to Japan is essential to form integrated services to meet the various needs.
3. Four Seasons
   Four Seasons is a Canadian luxury hotel and resorts company. They expanded into Japan in 2002, opening their first Japanese hotel in Marunouchi, Tokyo. From then on, they have established two other hotels in Kyoto and Otemachi, Tokyo in 2016 and 2020 respectively. The company is also planning to expand into Okinawa. The company partnered with Berjaya Okinawa Development Co. Ltd. for this, to create a location that shows Okinawa’s island cultural heritage. The company recognised the potential of this target location, having commercial value through both international and local tourism.

Understanding Japan’s market and consumer behaviour is demonstrated by these Canadian companies who expanded into Japan. As demonstrated, the three mentioned companies above have considered various aspects like target audience, location potential, and stakeholder management. Having a comprehensive understanding of Japan’s market is essential to any foreign businesses looking to expand into this country.