I want to protect the metal industry in Tsubame with the metal tableware processing technology that has been going on since Edo.
The predecessor of our company, "Saikichiemon Shoten", was opened by the first Saikichiemon in 1751 in the land of Tsubame, Niigata. At that time, we started with the making of Japanese nails, and we have created a variety of products in response to the needs that change with the times.
Time passed, and in the Meiji era, the eighth generation Kichiemon received a request from a shop in Tokyo, which was at the height of civilization and enlightenment, to make metal tableware. However, the eighth generation was only given a single spoon as a sample, and I don't know the material or manufacturing method. Therefore, we approached craftsmen in Yanchu, and through trial and error, we created a beautiful spoon of quality that is not inferior to overseas products. This was adopted by the historically famous Western-style restaurant "Seiyoken" in Ueno, and in the blink of an eye, the cutlery of "Saikichiemon Shoten" became a popular product.
In the eighth generation, the company expanded its sales channels overseas and began producing machines using power, which was rare at the time. This laid the foundation for the Tsubame metal industry that continues to this day. Since then, Tsubame has consistently made metal tableware for more than 110 years.
The "Laurel" series, which was released in the early Taisho era, is a best-selling product that continues to be sold even after 100 years. Laurel has not changed its shape and is mainly used in Japan's top restaurants and hotels, including Seiyoken.
In 1975 Japan at the request of the government, it was delivered to the Akasaka State Guest House, where it was used for a banquet for Queen Elizabeth II and President Ford. In 1981, Their Majesties the current Emperor and Empress visited our factory, and we have grown as one of Japan's leading metal tableware manufacturers.
Currently, in the swallow industry, we are unifying multiple brands,
We are rebranding as "KanaKichi". The brand name is taken from the first generation's trade name, "Kanakichi".
Laurel from 100 years ago (left) and laurel today (right)