2024.09.09

Reasons Why a Long-Established Hat Manufacturer Developed Hats for Cancer Patients: CHANVRE MAKI

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In Taito, Tokyo, there is a company that has been manufacturing hats for over 100 years, called "SATO Co., Ltd."

Makiko Sato, the fourth-generation CEO of the company, is dedicated not only to carrying on its history but also to expanding the hat brand for cancer patients, “CHANVRE MAKI.”

This is the first time the company has developed its own brand. Moreover, shortly after deciding to launch the brand, Makiko Sato herself was diagnosed with tongue cancer. Her experience greatly influenced the creation of this brand.

This time, we heard about the company’s journey, the background of launching “CHANVRE MAKI,” and their dedication to their hats.

PROFILE

Makiko Sato

Born in 1983. Joined SATO Co., Ltd. in 2013. Became CEO in 2014.
Launched the in-house brand of medical hats, “CHANVRE MAKI,” in 2023.

Both the Family Business & the In-house Brand Started with the Idea of Doing Something "For Someone"

First, can you tell us about the founding history of your company?

Our company was founded by my great-grandfather in 1912. He was originally from Yamanashi, working at a bank and with various trades, but he decided he wanted to start his own business and came to Tokyo to begin training in hat manufacturing.