Zojirushi

Zojirushi Corporation, established in 1918 as the Ichikawa Brothers Trading Company in Osaka, Japan, began with the production of glass-lined vacuum bottles using vacuum insulation technology. This innovation laid the foundation for Zojirushi's prominence in household products. In 1948, the company was renamed Kyowa Manufacturing Co., Ltd., and in 1961, it adopted the name Zojirushi Corporation, introducing an elephant as its corporate logo. The term "Z?jirushi" translates to "elephant mark" in Japanese, symbolising strength, intelligence, and familiarity.

In 1963, Zojirushi developed Japan's first automated vacuum bottle production equipment, initiating mass production of glass vacuum bottle liners. Significant milestones include the 1973 launch of the Air Pot® dispenser, which received widespread acclaim, and the 1983 introduction of microcomputer-controlled electric rice cookers. The company expanded internationally by establishing Zojirushi America Corporation in 1987 and introduced the Home Bakery® breadmaker in 1988.

Throughout its growth, Zojirushi has remained committed to enhancing quality of life, evident in products like user-friendly rice cookers and internet-connected appliances. In 2001, the company launched the "Mimamori Hotline" to support senior citizens through its electric "I-Pot."

Operating globally, Zojirushi has branches and subsidiaries in regions including South Korea, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, and the Americas. The company was listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange in 2018. As of November 2024, Zojirushi reported annual revenue of approximately ¥87.29 billion, equivalent to about USD 556.65 million, and a market capitalisation of around ¥102.66 billion, approximately USD 717.9 million.

Zojirushi Corporation was founded in 1918 as the Ichikawa Brothers Trading Company in Osaka, Japan. The company initially focused on creating glass-lined vacuum bottles using vacuum insulation, which was a technological innovation at the time. This early product marked the beginning of Zojirushi’s long-standing presence in the household product market.

In 1948, the company was renamed Kyowa Manufacturing Co., Ltd. This change marked the start of its expansion in the vacuum bottle market. In 1961, the name was changed again to Zojirushi Corporation, and the company adopted an elephant as its corporate logo, symbolising strength and intelligence. The word “Z?jirushi” translates to “elephant mark” in Japanese.

Zojirushi made a breakthrough in 1963 by developing Japan’s first automated production equipment for vacuum bottles, which enabled the mass production of glass vacuum bottle liners. This development solidified the company's position in the industry. The 1970s saw continued growth with the opening of the Osaka Factory in 1968 and the launch of the electric rice warmer in 1970. In 1973, Zojirushi launched the Air Pot® dispenser, a push-type beverage dispenser that received widespread recognition.

The company expanded its product line in 1980 with the sale of electric Air Pot® dispensers and launched its first stainless steel double-wall vacuum bottles in 1981. In 1983, Zojirushi introduced microcomputer-controlled electric rice cookers, enhancing its offerings in kitchen appliances. Zojirushi expanded internationally with the establishment of Zojirushi America Corporation in California in 1987, followed by the introduction of the Home Bakery® breadmaker in 1988.

In the 1990s, Zojirushi continued its expansion by establishing Zojirushi-Simatelex Co., Ltd., and Zojirushi Hong Kong Co., Ltd. in 1995. The company introduced the “Mimamori Hotline” project in 2001, which used an electric “I-Pot” to help monitor the elderly, reflecting its focus on supporting varied customer needs. In 2002, Zojirushi Taiwan Corporation was established, and in 2003, Zojirushi Shanghai Corporation was formed in China.

In 2008, the company marked its 90th anniversary and opened the Vacuum Bottle & Air Pot® Pavilion at its Osaka Head Office. In 2014, Zojirushi SE Asia Corporation Ltd. was established in Bangkok, Thailand, to further its presence in the Southeast Asian market.

In 2018, Zojirushi celebrated its 100th anniversary and was listed in the First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange, showcasing its long-standing success and market recognition. 

As of 2024, Zojirushi continues to produce a variety of household products, including rice cookers, water boilers, and vacuum-insulated products. It operates globally with subsidiaries and branches in countries such as South Korea, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong, and the United States. The company's revenue stands at approximately USD 556.65 million, with a market capitalisation of about USD 717.9 million. 

Zojirushi’s mission is to create products that enhance the quality of life for its customers. The company is dedicated to developing household appliances that are practical and reliable, drawing from its long history of technological expertise in vacuum insulation. Zojirushi’s mission is built on the principle of delivering user-friendly, innovative products that make everyday tasks simpler. It aims to provide solutions that improve convenience, catering to the needs of diverse lifestyles around the world. The company also emphasises environmental responsibility and ensures that its manufacturing practices and products are sustainable, promoting a balance between technology and ecological care.

Zojirushi’s vision is to be a global leader in creating products that contribute to a more comfortable and satisfying life for its customers. The company envisions a future where its products seamlessly integrate into daily life, providing ease and efficiency for people of all ages. Zojirushi aspires to continue developing technology that respects traditions while embracing modern advancements. Its vision includes expanding its global reach, maintaining trust through quality and reliability, and remaining committed to environmentally responsible practices. The company aims to inspire confidence and meet customer expectations by continuously innovating with thoughtful and effective product designs.

Zojirushi Corporation has received several awards and recognitions for its innovative products and designs. In 1999, the company's "Madame Zojirushi" television commercial won the ACC Grand Prix, receiving the Minister of Posts and Telecommunications Award. In 2018, Zojirushi was chosen as a finalist in the annual HomeWorld Design Awards for 2019, highlighting its commitment to quality and innovation. Additionally, the company has been recognised by the iF Design Award, a prestigious international design competition, for its outstanding product designs. These accolades reflect Zojirushi's dedication to creating products that enhance everyday life.

Zojirushi Corporation offers a comprehensive range of household and commercial products designed to enhance daily living through innovation and quality.

Zojirushi rice cookers

Zojirushi's rice cookers are renowned for their advanced technology and user-friendly features. The lineup includes:

• Pressure Induction Heating Rice Cookers: Utilise pressure and induction heating for precise temperature control, ensuring optimal rice texture.
• Induction Heating (IH) Rice Cookers: Employ electromagnetic heating for even cooking and consistent results.
• Micom (Microcomputer) Rice Cookers: Feature 'fuzzy logic' technology that adjusts cooking parameters automatically for various rice types.
• Conventional Rice Cookers: Offer straightforward operation for basic rice cooking needs.

These models cater to different preferences and capacities, providing options for both small households and larger families.

Zojirushi breadmakers

Zojirushi's breadmakers simplify home baking with programmable settings and dual kneading blades for thorough dough mixing. The Home Bakery Virtuoso® Plus Breadmaker, for instance, offers multiple courses for various bread types, doughs, and even jams.

Zojirushi water boilers and warmers

Designed for convenience, Zojirushi's water boilers and warmers provide hot water at precise temperatures for tea, coffee, and other beverages. Features include quick temperature settings, energy-saving modes, and easy-to-read displays.

Zojirushi coffee makers

Zojirushi offers coffee makers that ensure optimal brewing temperatures and extraction. Models like the Fresh Brew Plus Thermal Carafe Coffee Maker come with programmable timers and thermal carafes to keep coffee hot without a warming plate.

Zojirushi's other electric products

Beyond rice cookers and breadmakers, Zojirushi provides a variety of electric appliances, including:

• Electric Skillets: Versatile for grilling, sautéing, and stewing.
• Griddles: Offer large cooking surfaces for pancakes, eggs, and more.
• Fish Roasters: Specialised for grilling fish with minimal smoke.

These appliances are designed to facilitate diverse cooking methods and cuisines.

Zojirushi vacuum-insulated products

Leveraging its expertise in vacuum insulation, Zojirushi offers:

• Mugs and Bottles: Keep beverages hot or cold for extended periods, featuring leak-proof lids and various capacities.
• Food Jars and Lunch Jars: Maintain the temperature of soups, stews, and meals, ideal for on-the-go dining.

These products are known for their durability and ease of use.

Zojirushi thermal carafes and air pot dispensers

Zojirushi’s thermal carafes keep beverages warm for extended periods without the need for reheating. The Air Pot® dispensers, launched in the 1970s, allow easy serving of hot or cold drinks with a push-type mechanism. These dispensers are highly valued for use in offices, meetings, and events.

Zojirushi commercial products

For commercial use, Zojirushi provides:

• Large-Capacity Rice Cookers and Warmers: Designed for restaurants and catering services, offering consistent performance.
• Commercial Water Boilers: Provide hot water on demand for food service operations.

These products are built to withstand heavy usage and meet the demands of commercial environments.

Technological Integration

Zojirushi has integrated modern technology into its products to enhance user convenience. Certain rice cookers and electric pots come with internet connectivity, allowing for remote monitoring and control. This feature ensures that even those with limited mobility, like senior citizens, can operate the appliances easily.

Zojirushi Mimamori hotline service

In 2001, Zojirushi introduced the "Mimamori Hotline" service, linked to the electric "I-Pot." This service helps monitor the well-being of elderly individuals by sending usage data to family members, ensuring that loved ones are active and safe.

Sustainability and environmental focus

Zojirushi incorporates environmentally responsible practices into its product development. The company aims to create long-lasting products that help reduce waste and energy use. Many Zojirushi appliances include energy-saving modes to help users minimise power consumption.