Housewares Show Will Feature Japan Pavilion with Exhibitors Hit Hard by Earthquake, Tsunami
February 20, 2012
When the 2012 International Home + Housewares Show opens its doors March 10-13 at McCormick Place in Chicago, there will be a Japan Pavilion for the first time that will feature 10 exhibitors who directly were impacted by the earthquake and ensuing tsunami last year.
The timing of the International Housewares Association's show has special significance since the second day of the four-day event marks the one-year anniversary of the devastating events that occurred March 11 in Japan.
The Japan Pavilion Tohoku is a special initiative by JETRO, Japan’s governmental arm for external trade, and the 10 manufacturers come from three prefectures in Northeastern Japan that were hit hardest by the earthquake and tsunami – Iwate, Miyago and Fukushima.
“Despite the scale of the disaster, all of our exhibitors have shown the courage to pick their lives back up, re-energize their companies and look to new markets,” said Atsushi Semimoto, executive director of business development and public relations at JETRO New York.
The Tohuko Region of Japan is known for its detailed craftsmanship, instead of mass-produced home goods, according to JETRO officials.
Japan also is famous for the “Mingei Movement”, which celebrates Japanese folk art and the beauty of everyday objects.
“Several of our exhibitors are venturing into the U.S. market for the first time in an effort to bring their unique products to American consumers and to revitalize their businesses,” Semimoto said.
He added, “They are eager to learn more about the market by participating in this show.”
The 10 exhibitors who are coming from the impacted prefectures represent product categories ranging from wood and lacquer creations to cast iron cookware and glassware.
“The IHA is very pleased to be cooperating with JETRO on the Japan Pavilion at the 2012 show,” said Derek Miller, IHA vice president.
He added, “Helping the people and the companies from the regions devastated by the earthquake and tsunami is a very worthwhile effort. We encourage all buying attendees at the show to visit the Japan Pavilion and support the recovery effort.”
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse culture, not just among employees and guests but also within its supply chain. The company prioritizes procuring goods and services from businesses owned by minorities, women, veterans, people with disabilities, LGBTQ individuals and those facing economic disadvantages. This commitment is integral to MGM Resorts' global procurement strategy.
Through its voluntary supplier diversity program, MGM Resorts actively identifies and connects certified diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within its supply chain. The company is on track to spend at least 15% of its biddable procurement with diverse-owned businesses by 2025, demonstrating that supplier diversity is not only a social responsibility but also a strategic business imperative.
Supplier diversity isn’t just the right thing to do – it’s good for business. A diverse supply chain allows access to a broader range of perspectives and experience, helping to drive innovation, entrepreneurship and resilience, while strengthening communities. At MGM Resorts, engaging diverse suppliers ensures best-in-class experiences for guests and clients. Supplier diversity ensures a more resilient supply chain while supporting economic development in the communities in which it operates.
The impact of MGM Resorts' supplier diversity initiatives is significant. In 2023, these efforts supported over 3,500 jobs across more than 30 states, contributed over $214 million in income for diverse-owned businesses and generated more than $62 million in tax revenue. The story extends beyond the numbers – it reflects the tangible benefits brought to small and diverse-owned businesses, fostering economic empowerment in their communities.
MGM Resorts also supports the development and business skills of diverse-owned businesses through investment, mentorship and education. Through the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program, the company identifies, mentors and develops diverse-owned businesses to fill its future pipeline, while providing businesses with tools and resources to empower and uplift. Since 2017, the program has successfully graduated 105 diverse-owned businesses and is on track to achieve its goal of 150 graduates by 2025.
MGM Resorts’ commitment to supplier diversity not only enhances its business operations but also plays a crucial role in uplifting communities and fostering economic development. This approach reinforces the idea that diversity is a powerful driver of innovation and resilience, benefiting both the company and the wider community.
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