TomizawaShoutenFrom a fan of
to manager of two stores.

Why did you join Tomizawa Shouten ?

I've loved cooking and baking since I was a child, andShoutenI was drawn to
As I actually used the store, I started to think, "I want to work surrounded by things I love," and that's how I ended up applying and joining the company.

The work I am currently doing

Currently, I am in charge of managing two stores as a store manager.
In addition to on-the-ground tasks such as customer service, stocking shelves, ordering, and handling deliveries, I am also responsible for all aspects of store management, including sales management, shift scheduling, and staff training.

After arriving at work, I check sales figures and store conditions, and share them during the morning meeting. After that, I work on the sales floor, managing the store operations

As a store manager, I am particularly conscious of creating a sales floor that takes advantage of the unique characteristics of each store.
Since best-selling products and customer demographics differ from store to store, I try to determine "when and what sells" and act accordingly.

The interesting aspects of this job

The most rewarding aspect of this job is seeing customers enjoying themselves.
When they say things like, "I'll come again," or "I found the product I was looking for," I feel a real sense of satisfaction knowing I've been able to help them.

Furthermore, as a store manager, I feel a great sense of accomplishment when staff members start thinking for themselves and taking initiative by saying, "I'll give it a try," and when the initiatives I've come up with regarding store layout and sales strategies lead to increased sales

Memorable experiences

Things I value as a store manager

Of all the projects I've worked on so far, the most memorable is the store operations following the acquisition of the QUOCA (*) business

Bringing together stores with different cultures meant dealing with rapid changes, which had a significant impact on the front lines.
Overcoming these challenges one by one, while operating the stores with a limited number of staff and receiving support from the area manager, was a valuable experience.

Initially, there was some confusion, but the sales that had been sluggish after Christmas gradually changed due to the influx of year-end and New Year's merchandise, and the resulting shift in sales composition, allowed us to feel a sense of growth, which was a valuable lesson

Also, what I find most challenging as a store manager is dealing with people

When communicating something to my staff, I make a point of leading by example. I believe that words only become persuasive when you practice them yourself

We also believe it's important to tailor our approach to each individual's personality and strengths

In management, what we emphasize is not "controlling," but rather "building the store together." We believe that creating an environment where staff can work happily and positively leads to building a team that can act proactively

*Cuoca
is a specialty brand that handles confectionery and baking ingredients.
In September 2017,Shoutenthe business was acquired by
nowShoutenoperated under the

Things that feel typical of Tomizawa Shouten

TomizawaShoutenhas a close-knit environment where stores and headquarters, as well as stores themselves, are easily accessible for consultation.
When you're in trouble, the area manager and other staff members will support you, and there's a natural culture of cooperation in daily operations.
I feel that this warmth of people is a unique charm of this company.
Another reason I've been able to continue working here for so long is that I have many opportunities to work with new products, so I never get bored, and as a store manager, I find it interesting to grow the store while tracking the numbers.

Things I want to try in the future

I aim to further develop the two stores I currently manage, striving to increase sales and enhance store value.
I will work to create stores that customers continue to choose, while providing an environment where each staff member can thrive.