Production Relay and Development
Year-round stable supply of delicious fresh produce by production relay
A trained eye is crucial for accurately determining the timing of switching production areas.
We handle both domesic and imported products for specific items, depending on the balance of supply and demand. However, since the situation changes daily due to weather conditions, it is highly challenging for us to determine the timing of switching production areas within Japan or to decide whether to use domestic or imported products. It requires the expertise and professional experience of fresh produce to make the right decision at a time.
Ensuring a Stable Supply of Fresh Produce from a Global Perspective
Delivering delicious fresh produce to Japanese consumers year-round
Asparagus was originally a spring crop. So, in the past, it was rarely available in stores from summer to winter in Japan.
However, there are production areas of aspparagaus overseas that reach their peak season while no domestic asparagaus production in Japan.
In the late 1980s, Watari focused on this opportunity and started importing asparagus from California, USA. Since then, Watari has also established procurement system with production areas in other countries such as Australia, NZ, Mexico, and Peru. By relaying overseas production areas, Japanese consumers can enjoy delicious fresh asparagus year-round.
Building on this opportunity, we have focused on developing overseas production areas for the specific items that do not compete with domestic products or overlap in seasonal availability. Today, our imported fresh produce spans a wide range of items, including okra, kabocha squash, bell peppers, blueberries, and US cherries. Combining these imported products with domestic products, we can ensure a stable supply of fresh produce.
Creating Marketable Products Together with Growers
Constantly striving to deliver products that meet and exceed consumer expectations
Freshness, flavor, and safety are the most fundamental and essential qualities required for fresh produce. Based on these principles, we must consider what kind of products are wanted by consumers, to create marketable products.
At Watari, we share this understanding with growers to develop the products that consumers desire—in other words, products that sell—to build a win-win relationship between growers and consumers. To achieve this, our sales and procurement staff regularly visit production areas, fostering close communication with growers.
