ITO EN, Ltd.

ITO EN, Ltd. is Japan’s leading producer of green tea and a globally recognized beverage company specializing in tea-based products. Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Tokyo, ITO EN has established itself as a pioneer in the tea and beverage industry, blending traditional Japanese tea culture with innovative product development. The company operates in multiple markets, including North America, Asia, and Europe, distributing its renowned brands such as Oi Ocha, Teas' Tea, and Matcha LOVE.

Core Business and Market Positioning

ITO EN is primarily engaged in the production, distribution, and sales of tea-based beverages, loose-leaf teas, and healthy drinks. With a strong focus on sustainability and quality, ITO EN is known for its innovative brewing techniques, ensuring a natural and authentic tea experience. The company’s flagship product, Oi Ocha, is the best-selling unsweetened green tea beverage in Japan.

The company operates in multiple business segments:

• Beverage and Tea Leaf Business – Producing bottled teas, coffee, vegetable drinks, and functional beverages.
• Restaurant and Retail Operations – Managing specialty tea shops and cafes.
• Overseas Expansion – Distributing its beverages globally, particularly in the U.S., China, and Southeast Asia.

Product and Service Offerings

ITO EN provides a wide range of tea and beverage products, categorized as follows:

• Green Tea: Oi Ocha Unsweetened Green Tea, Oi Ocha Bold Green Tea, Oi Ocha Hojicha Tea.
• Oolong Tea: Golden Oolong Tea.
• Jasmine Tea: Jasmine Green Tea.
• Functional and Healthy Drinks: Catechin Green Tea, Barley Tea (Mugicha), and Vegetable Juices.
• Loose Leaf and Matcha: Premium matcha powders and tea bags for home consumption.

ITO EN is also involved in private label production for various global beverage brands and supplies tea ingredients for restaurants and the foodservice industry.

Unique Selling Proposition (USP)

• No Additives, 100% Natural: ITO EN’s tea products are free from artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.
• Brewed from Whole Tea Leaves: Unlike other brands that use tea extract, ITO EN brews directly from tea leaves.
• Sustainable Sourcing: The company promotes sustainable tea farming and supports Japanese tea growers.
• First to Introduce Unsweetened Bottled Tea: Pioneered the concept of ready-to-drink green tea with no added sugar.

Financial Performance

ITO EN maintains a strong financial presence in the beverage industry. As of the latest fiscal year:

• Revenue: ¥400.5 billion (approx. $2.7 billion)
• Net Profit: ¥17.3 billion (approx. $116 million)
• Market Capitalization: Over ¥600 billion (approx. $4 billion)
• Global Sales Growth: 8.2% increase in overseas markets, particularly in North America and China.

Global Shipments and Export Market

ITO EN has a well-established international distribution network. The company has recorded:

• Annual Overseas Sales Volume: Over 1.2 billion bottles.
• North America Market Share: Leading supplier of Japanese green tea in the U.S.
• Presence in Over 30 Countries: Key markets include the U.S., Canada, China, Australia, and Southeast Asia.

Certifications and Compliance

ITO EN adheres to the highest quality and safety standards, holding certifications such as:

• ISO 9001 & ISO 14001 – Ensuring quality management and environmental sustainability.
• HACCP & FSSC 22000 – Certified for food safety management systems.
• JAS Organic Certification – Compliance with Japanese organic food standards.
• Fair Trade and Sustainable Practices – Actively promotes ethical sourcing and responsible production.

Customer Testimonials and Recognition

ITO EN has received numerous accolades and positive feedback from consumers:

• Award-Winning Product Line: Oi Ocha has been Japan’s No.1 selling green tea brand for over 30 years.
• U.S. Retail Success: Teas' Tea and Matcha LOVE brands have gained a strong presence in Whole Foods, Costco, and Walmart.
• Consumer Trust: Consistently ranked among the most trusted beverage brands in Japan.

Major Achievements

• Pioneered the Bottled Green Tea Market: First company to commercialize unsweetened ready-to-drink green tea in 1985.
• Expanded into the U.S. Market in 2001: Successfully positioned itself as a premium Japanese tea brand in North America.
• Introduced Sustainable Tea Farming Initiatives: Launched the Tea-Producing Region Development Project, supporting Japanese tea farmers.
• Ranked Among the Top 100 Most Sustainable Companies in Japan: Recognized for its environmental and social impact.

ITO EN continues to lead the tea industry with its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and high-quality products, making it a preferred choice for consumers worldwide.