Maruha Nichiro Corporation announced on March 24, 2025, its decision to change its corporate name to 'Umios,' effective March 1, 2026, during a board of directors meeting. This change comes alongside a newly established long-term vision and a mid-term management plan aimed at solidifying the company’s position in the food industry.
The new name 'Umios' is a combination derived from the Japanese word 'umi' (meaning sea), paired with the English words 'one' and 'solutions.' This reflects the company’s ambition to unify with stakeholders and the global community while tackling critical social challenges through its food solutions. The incorporation of 'solutions' emphasizes Maruha Nichiro's commitment to resolving pressing global issues, particularly those tied to food security and sustainability.
Maruha Nichiro has devised an ambitious roadmap for the next decade, setting a target of operating profit of 40 billion yen in the fiscal year ending March 2028, a significant increase from the forecasted 30 billion yen for the fiscal year ending March 2025. Furthermore, the company aims for a return on invested capital (ROIC) of 5% by the plan’s conclusion. The dividend payout ratio is also set to exceed 30%, illustrating the company's dedication to shareholder returns.
In expressing the importance of these changes, President Satoshi Ikenami remarked, "Our mission is to go beyond the scope of business challenges and solve social and global challenges. A new corporate identity is necessary, and we decided to change the company name." This statement underscores the company's proactive approach to navigating not just business challenges, but also broader societal issues.
The transition to the new name is being framed as the company's 'third founding,' marking a significant evolution in its identity since the merger of the original Maruha and Nichiro companies in 2007. Maruha Nichiro's roots stretch back to 1880, when Maruha was established, followed by Nichiro in 1907. This change signifies an innovative step forward and an intention to better reflect the company’s values and goals in the modern world.
Additionally, Maruha Nichiro plans to enhance its international presence significantly, aiming for an overseas recurring profit ratio of 70% or more over the next ten years, with the goal of achieving a ROIC of 7% by then. This strategic orientation promises to diversify its operations and reinforce its role in global markets.
As part of the new identity, the design concept for the company’s logo will express respect for the oceans and the essence of life they sustain. The logo is envisioned with a visual representation of the Earth—the blue symbolizing the oceans and the white representing new, expanding horizons.
In response to the announcement, reactions from stakeholders and the public have varied widely. Some individuals have expressed concerns over the memorability of 'Umios,' while others have nostalgically mourned the loss of the long-standing name 'Maruha Nichiro.' As the company approaches this transition, it is already hearing voices that echo sentiments of skepticism and fondness for the familiar brand identity.
The name change and the adoption of a new corporate ethos are set to be discussed at the upcoming general meeting of shareholders in June 2025, followed by the gradual renaming of group companies by March 2027.
Maruha Nichiro is also poised to relocate its headquarters to Minato-ku, Tokyo, in 2026, emphasizing its commitment to growth and engagement in a city that is a hub of communication and business innovation.
As the company embarks on this transformative phase, it reinforces its long-held values while striving for a modernized approach to business, ready to meet the challenges of the future and emphasizing its role as a solution-oriented player in the global food sector.
