Leadership Transition in Prominent Seattle Family Business

Founded in 1928, Seattle-based Uwajimaya is transitioning to its third generation of leadership for the family-owned retail chain. Denise Moriguchi will take over as CEO next month, and has big plans for the company. As detailed by a recent Seattle Times article, Denise has long-lasting memories relating to decades of working at Uwajimaya with her family. From her beginnings bagging groceries and making mocha after store hours, to her current position as CFO and soon CEO, Denise is in line to take over an enterprise that is a staple in the Pacific Northwest.

Uwajimaya’s roots took hold in Tacoma, when Fujimatsu Moriguchi began selling homemade fishcakes out of the back of his truck. Today, Uwajimaya has grown into an enterprise which owns retail locations throughout the Pacific Northwest among other real estate holdings.

We were honored to feature the Moriguchi  family in 2013 as they discussed their plans for leadership transition. We would like to congratulate Denise on her appointment.   It bodes well for the family and the community.

Keep in mind our next Family Business Legacy Series event is on February 1st, featuring the Leupold & Stevens company. If you are interested in attending, please contact Tara Alvergue  or Register Here.

* Please note this event is intended for Family Business owners and members only.

Joe Weinstein represents companies in corporate structuring, mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, and other business transactions. He focuses particularly on transactions involving family or closely held businesses, private equity funds, and international businesses. Joe has substantial experience in the food-related industries and assists clients with the purchase, sale and finance of such companies. Contact Joe at joeweinstein@dwt.com or directly at 206.757.8165.