Kikkoman Holds Grand Opening Events for New Jefferson Plant

On September 18, KIKKOMAN FOODS, INC. (KFI) held a series of commemorative events, including a Grand Opening Ceremony, at its Jefferson Plant in Wisconsin.The Jefferson Plant is Kikkoman's third production plant in the United States and the Group's ninth soy sauce production base outside Japan. These events welcomed numerous guests, including representatives from state and local governments, business partners, and members of the local community. The occasion celebrated the completion of the new facility and reaffirmed the long-standing partnership between Kikkoman and the State of Wisconsin.

Prior to the Grand Opening Ceremony, a press conference was held at the Jefferson Plant.Representing Kikkoman were Yuzaburo Mogi, Honorary CEO and Chairman of the Board of Directors; Noriaki Horikiri, Representative Director and Executive Chairman; Shozaburo Nakano, Representative Director, President and CEO; and Osamu Mogi, Representative Director and Senior Executive Corporate Officer. Together with distinguished guests, including Tony Evers, Governor of Wisconsin, they spoke about the background of the new plant project and future business expansion.During the press conference, Kikkoman reflected on its efforts to develop the U.S. market since entering the country in the 1950s while continuing to promote the value and appeal of soy sauce. The continued growth of the soy sauce business in North America was also highlighted.

The ceremony began with a chorus performance by local high school students. On behalf of KFI, Yuzaburo Mogi, Chairman of the Board and Honorary Chief Executive Officer, delivered remarks expressing gratitude for the support received during the construction of the new plant and reaffirming Kikkoman's commitment to growing its business while maintaining strong ties with the local community.

Congratulatory remarks were then delivered by Tony Evers, Governor of Wisconsin; Scott Fitzgerald, U.S. Representative; Steve Nass, Jefferson County Board Chair; and Dale Oppermann, Mayor of Jefferson. Speakers expressed their appreciation for Kikkoman's more than 50 years of partnership with Wisconsin and their expectations for the new facility.As part of KFI's ongoing commitment to the local community, the company also donated USD 250,000 to Jefferson County in support of a native prairie restoration project.

Following the donation presentation, distinguished guests participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of the new plant. The ceremony symbolized the strong relationships fostered through the construction project and Kikkoman's connection with the local community.After the ceremony, guests were invited to tour the facility and attend a luncheon, where they had the opportunity to view the plant's state-of-the-art equipment and production process. The visit provided a deeper understanding of the role of the new facility and Kikkoman's commitment to manufacturing excellence.

A Grand Opening Dinner Party was held that evening at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, welcoming approximately 370 guests, including business partners and members of the local community.Following opening remarks by Yuzaburo Mogi,a traditional kagami-biraki ceremony and toast were held to celebrate the completion of the new plant.

The event also featured a video presentation highlighting the plant project, as well as congratulatory messages from Senator Ron Johnson (video) and Senator Tammy Baldwin (written).Congratulatory remarks were shared by Shigeo Yamada, Ambassador of Japan to the United States, and former Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson, who expressed their expectations for the new facility and for Kikkoman's continued contributions to the local community.Guests also enjoyed a dynamic performance by a Japanese taiko drumming group, along with performances by local high school students that reflected the strong ties between Japan and the United States. The evening provided an opportunity to celebrate the completion of the plant, strengthen relationships, and express appreciation to the many people who have supported Kikkoman over the years.

Since entering the U.S. market in the 1950s, Kikkoman has expanded its business based on a strong relationship of trust with the State of Wisconsin. Planned investment in the Jefferson Plant over a ten-year period totals approximately USD 560 million, and the new plant and related facilities are expected to create numerous employment opportunities.The events surrounding the Grand Opening served not only as a celebration of the completion of the new facility, but also as an opportunity to express appreciation to local communities, government officials, and business partners.Kikkoman will continue to value its partnerships with local communities while providing high-quality products to consumers around the world and contributing to regional development.