Umeki Takao (梅木 孝雄), president of the footwear manufacturer HIRAKI, which introduced its ¥180 sneakers a quarter-century ago, took office in June 2025. Amid soaring costs, the company has shifted toward a policy of pursuing value beyond the price.
For many years, HIRAKI has continued making footwear that combines affordable prices with functionality. This feature describes how, upon becoming president, Umeki Takao (梅木 孝雄) called on employees to “create shoes that offer value beyond their price.” The new management policy is driven by rising costs and points to enhancing product quality and functionality. Umeki Takao (梅木 孝雄) is 65 and is said to have become president in June 2025. A photograph shows him holding Nexela, a newly developed footwear product.
The article is structured around the president's shift in strategy, allowing readers to assess how HIRAKI may strengthen the value proposition of its products going forward. Attention should be paid to trends in raw-material costs and how the company responds through technological development and quality improvements.