After a successful start in 2016, the organizers expect further growth, and the next OLE will increase the space to about 5,000 m² in Hall E. Because of weather conditions in July, the Farmers’ Market will be held in the hall. - The zones presented in 2016 will be increased with new topics and products added reflecting the trends and demands of market.
Organic is a lifestyle for people who want to live a comfortable and pleasant life and stay healthy. It is also a challenge for us to lead a life carefully selecting not only food but also other necessities for daily life.
Sustainable, ethical, fair trade, local, biodiversity and corporate social responsibility (CSR): All these keywords are drawing attention during the past decade or longer and are closely related to an organic lifestyle.
The time has come for the organic movement to take firmly roots in Japan. This is not limited to certified organic products, but also includes the devotion and diligence of the producers of natural and organic food and non-food products. Furthermore, the interest and acceptance of consumers is an important factor for the growth of the movement and the market.
Our goal is to create a trade show with new concepts in tune with current trends in the global organic movement and in Japan. This event strives strive to meet the requirements of consumers and the market. For this purpose the opinions and suggestions of various groups, industries and consumers are integrated in the EXPO and FORUM. Active contribution by many experts and stakeholders will ensure a successful event.
The organizer team (Japan Food Trust Project, LOHAS World and Global Organic Network/GON) supported by advisers and major stakeholders developed a concept based on the following considerations:
・ Global organic movement, markets and trends
・ Current market situation in Japan and specific needs
・ Covering a wide range of products for a healthy and sustainable lifestyle
・ Bringing producers, distributors, consumers and other stakeholders together (B2B2C)
・ Extensive seminar and event program before and during OLE
・ Cooperation with many relevant associations, organizations and groups
・ Support from media and sponsors
■ Exhibitors and visitors appreciated the benefits of B2B2C
As anticipated by the organizers, the convenient location in central Tokyo attracted on both days many business people and consumers. Both groups welcomed the B2B2C concept which is suitable for Japan. Visitors also appreciated the wide range of exhibited natural/organic products beyond food and beverages as well as the side program with many seminars and events. These factors in their combination resulted in high satisfaction levels among exhibitors and visitors (see closing release and report)
- 1
- Fruit and vegetables, seafood, livestock products, processed foods, raw material and ingredients, drinks, alcoholic beverages and more.
- 2
- Agriculture, farms and home garden (organic seeds, fertilizer, pesticides, which are the necessary base for organic crops), flowers and more.
- 3
- Apparel, fashion, accessories, sundries and more.
- 4
- Body care and cosmetics, detergents and more.
- 5
- Health & Wellness, aromatherapy, alternative medicine, spa, yoga, and more.
- 6
- Baby & Kids, toys, dietary education, miscellaneous goods, art and more.
- 7
- Housing, renovation, building materials, interior, reuse and recycling and more.
- 8
- Traditional lore and regional activation, tourism, old houses regeneration, traditional food, technology and crafts and more.
- 9
- Alternative energy, hybrid technology, storage technology other, natural energy and more.
- 10
- Overseas merchandise, import, distribution and more.
The logo with a colorful variety of seeds represents the wide range of natural/organic products and topics covered by the EXPO and Forum.
Meetings and communication between people from various fields will lead to further development and success for the organic movement and market.
