Skip to content
DWT logo
People Expertise Insights
About Locations Careers
Search
People
Expertise
Insights
About
Locations
Careers
Search
Presentations

"Moriguchi & Uwajimaya: Bridging the Generations," Davis Wright Tremaine, Seattle

06.06.13
Share
Print this page

From modest origins in the back of a truck in Pierce County, family-owned business Uwajimaya has achieved prominence as the region's premier Asian supermarket and one of the nation's best.

Founder Fujimatsu Moriguchi initially sold fish cakes from the back of his truck to Japanese immigrant laborers when he came to Seattle in 1923. During World War II the Moriguchi family, like other Japanese families, was sent to California's Tule Lake Internment Camp. Returning to Seattle after the war with $400 in his pocket, Mr. Moriguchi bought a 1,200-square-foot storefront at 422 Main Street. Today, Uwajimaya has expanded to four locations in Washington and Oregon.

Over the company's 86-year history, ownership has passed from founder Fujimatsu to his four sons—Kenzo, Tomio, Akira, and Toshi—who then extended ownership to their mother and three sisters. The second-generation siblings have been grooming the 3rd generation family members to assume the helm.

In the second program of the 2013 Family Business Legacy Series, we heard from Tomio, 2nd gen, and a member of the 3rd gen about the lessons they have learned over multiple generational transitions while maintaining and refining their mission, vision and values.

After the panel discussion, there was a breakout session and an opportunity for the attendee families to interact and share experiences.

More information on the history and legacy of Uwajimaya.

Related Articles

DWT logo
©1996-2022 Davis Wright Tremaine LLP. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
NAVIGATE
Home People Expertise Insights
About Locations Careers Events Blogs
STAY CONNECTED

Subscribe to stay informed.

Subscribe
Employees
DWT Collaborate
EEO
Affiliations
Legal notices
Privacy policy
©1996-2022 Davis Wright Tremaine LLP. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Close
Close

CAUTION - Before you proceed, please note: By clicking “accept” you agree that our review of the information contained in your e-mail and any attachments will not create an attorney-client relationship, and will not prevent any lawyer in our firm from representing a party in any matter where that information is relevant, even if you submitted the information in good faith to retain us.