APAC Insider- Business Awards 2024 | 10 SOPHOLA, Inc is a digital marketing company with a unique dual focus that aims to contribute to resolving the social issues faced by rural Japan through providing cutting-edge solutions. Company Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Masaki Iino, tells us more about the innovative firm and how it has positioned itself for future success. Founded in April 2018 in Nagano, Japan, SOPHOLA, Inc’s (SOPHOLA) mission is centred around contributing to local revitalisation, with goals focusing on addressing key social challenges in rural Japan, such as depopulation, the aging population of traditional artisans, and the promotion of local attractions to global audiences. The firm strongly believes that solving these issues at a local level can pre-emptively address similar challenges in major metropolitan areas. To achieve these ambitious objectives, SOPHOLA has a unique dual focus, operating in two primary areas, these being digital marketing consulting and outsourcing, whereby it partners with over 18 global tech firms to bring cutting-edge solutions to Japan, helping nearly 400 domestic clients, including major enterprises like MitsuiSumitomo Bank Group and Dentsu Group, achieve significant performance gains and operational efficiencies. There is also the B2B e-commerce arm of the firm which is geared towards the supporting and enhancing the country’s traditional crafts, whereby SOPHOLA connects international clients with Japanese artisans to promote and preserve centuriesold craftsmanship, thus enhancing their global reach. “While our mission to support local revitalisation has remained consistent since our founding, our methods have evolved to address emerging challenges and capitalise on technological advancements,” further explains Masaki Iino, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the firm. “We are particularly proud of our role as a cultural bridge, connecting Japanese artisans with global clients while preserving their invaluable craftsmanship. Our dedication to tackling social challenges through business innovation remains at the core of our operations.” To further enhance its expansive offering, SOPHOLA’s client service philosophy is rooted in delivering exceptional value through innovation and reliability, and high standards are maintained in several ways, including: partnering exclusively with global leaders in technology to offer unmatched solutions in Japan; regularly tracking performance metrics to ensure that clients achieve tangible results, such as 30-60% performance improvements and significant cost reductions; and providing culturally sensitive and well-contextualised services, particularly in promoting Japanese traditional crafts internationally, ensuring the authenticity and quality of the firm’s work. Client feedback and proactive support also play a critical role in continuously refining SOPHOLA’s offerings. The APAC region, specifically Japan, presents a dynamic mix of challenges and opportunities. The country’s rapidly aging population, shrinking rural economies, and the need to adapt to global digital transformation trends are clear obstacles to SOPHOLA’s mission, however its rich cultural heritage and world-class artisanship offer untapped potential for global expansion. Additionally, the increasing adoption of advanced digital marketing technologies provides significant growth potential for companies like SOPHOLA, which bridge local markets with global innovation. The firm addresses these challenges head-on, meaning it is uniquely positioned to capitalise on such opportunities. The firm also distinguishes itself as a clear leader by fostering a culture of innovation, social responsibility, and teamwork - actively promoting collaboration across its diverse teams and encouraging a mindset of continuous learning and adaptability. Masaki elaborates further on what the company looks for in potential new recruits, “We seek individuals with a strong sense of initiative and curiosity, an appreciation for both modern technology and traditional culture, and skills in cross-cultural communication, as many of our projects involve international clients and partners,” he explains. “These traits help new staff integrate seamlessly and contribute meaningfully to our mission.” For its success and dedication to digital transformation and social impact in rural Japan, SOPHOLA was recently recognised in the APAC Business Awards 2024 and bestowed with the two prestigious accolades of Most Pioneering Digital Marketing Technology Solutions Company and the APAC Insider Excellence Award for Traditional Crafts Promotion Services. Regarding the future, Masaki has ambitious plans for the company that focus on expanding partnerships with global tech firms to introduce more cuttingedge solutions to Japan, as well as launching new initiatives aimed at promoting Japanese traditional crafts in untapped international markets and, furthermore, developing additional solutions addressing the digital transformation needs of rural and urban businesses. “Through these projects, we aim to strengthen our position as a leader in digital marketing and cultural preservation.” Contact: Masaki Iino Company: SOPHOLA, Inc Web Address: https://sophola.jp/en/ Most Pioneering Digital Marketing Technology Solutions Company 2024 & APAC Insider Excellence Award for Traditional Crafts Promotion Services 2024 Nov24125 SOPHOLA, Inc
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