The PSU Center for Japanese Studies
Presents
Naoki KuzeThe St.Cousair Story
Part 3 of the CJS Lecture Series
Kanpai Japan: Japanese Food Culture
November 2, 2022 | 6pm |Room 327/8/9
Smith Memorial Student Union
Free and Open to the Public
Naoki Kuze, President and CEO of St. Cousair, Inc., shares the story of St. Cousair from its beginnings as small ski lodge in Nagano, Japan, founded by his parents Ryozo and Mayumi Kuze. The lecture will cover the growth of the family company in Japan, including its expansion as a new retail brand Kuze Fuku and Co. (久世福商店), as well as the most recent chapter in the family business, the establishment of operations here in Oregon.
Mr. Kuze will discuss the challenges and struggles this family business faced, and describe the company’s commitment to developing its business in the United States, as well as its passion for sharing Japanese culture and the delight of Japanese foods with people in the U.S. and indeed the world. He will also share the story of Kuze Fuku & Sons’ relationship with their local community of Newberg, OR, including how the pandemic taught them the importance of American-style philanthropy.
Kanpai Japan: Japanese Food Culture is co-sponsored by Zupan's Markets
A series of complimentary events will take place at Zupan's Markets. More details to come.