Fiskars celebrates fifth anniversary of Iittala branded retail in Japan
Fiskars Corp. Press Release September 4, 2012
Fiskars today celebrated five successful years of Iittala branded retail in Japan and the launch of Sarjaton, Iittala’s new set of tableware, with an opening ceremony for the newly remodelled and expanded Iittala department at the Matsuya Ginza department store in Tokyo. Attended by Her Imperial Highness Princess Takamado and Finnish Prime Minister Jyrki Katainen, the event underlined Japanese consumers’ appreciation of Iittala’s timeless design and high quality.
The Iittala department in Matsuya Ginza department store, which opened in 2007, was the first Iittala department in Japan. Matsuya is one of Tokyo’s premium department stores, located in the world-famous Ginza shopping area. The remodelled and expanded Iittala department invites Matsuya’s customers – who number almost 12 million annually – to surround themselves with essential design objects and inspires them to create personal and unique everyday moments.
The popularity of the Iittala and Arabia brands in Japan has increased steadily, and today there are already 18 Iittala stores and departments in the Tokyo area, operated by Fiskars’ local partner. Further expansion into the Kansai area, the second most populated area in Japan, is planned for the near future.
The expansion of the Iittala-branded retail network is part of Fiskars’ strategy to grow outside the Nordic markets and become a globally leading consumer goods company for Scandinavian design. At the end of 2011, there were around 170 Iittala stores, outlets and departments in Europe and Asia. Going forward, the focus for Iittala is shifting towards new market openings in Central Europe and Asia while continuing to consolidate its position in the Nordic region.
Further information:
Anu Ilvonen, Director, Corporate Communications, tel. +358 204 39 5446
Iittala is Fiskars’ key international brand in the dining and interior categori
es, with a strong heritage of timeless iconic products from tableware and glass to interior design and objets d’art. Iittala products are distributed mainly through Iittala-branded retail operations in both department stores and Iittala’s own shops, as well as in specialist stores. www.iittala.com
Sarjaton is a modern interpretation of Finnish traditions. It is a completely new way of thinking about tableware, designed by independent, strong Finnish designers: Harri Koskinen, Aleksi Kuokka, Musuta and Samuji. The soft shapes and rich visuals of the collection allow numerous combinations for contemporary dining. www.sarjaton.com
Fiskars is a leading global supplier of consumer products for the home, garden and outdoors. The group has a strong portfolio of respected international brands, including Fiskars, Iittala and Gerber. Founded in 1649 and listed on NASDAQ OMX Helsinki, Fiskars is Finland’s oldest company. Fiskars recorded net sales of EUR 743 million in 2011, and employs some 3,400 people in over 20 countries. www.fiskarsgroup.com