Munekawa's directly managed store in Daikokucho, Osaka.
The building has an impressive two-tone white and navy color scheme.

The direct store is located on the second floor, adjacent to the production workshop.
Once you go up the stairs and open the door, you'll find a warm place with a calm atmosphere and the opportunity to chat with friendly staff.
This time, we will be sharing the charms of Munekawa's directly managed stores through an interview with Munekawa staff member Konishi.
▶︎Click here for details on Munekawa directly managed stores
Interview with Munekawa staff member Konishi

--What kind of work do you usually do at the Munekawa store?
I am responsible for production work, providing customer service at our directly managed stores, and responding to emails and phone calls.
--What kind of store is Munekawa?
The building is two-tone white and navy, and some customers who visit for the first time sometimes mistake it for a cafe or restaurant based on its exterior.

You enter the store by going up the stairs through the door on the right side of the front of the building , so it may be a little intimidating at first, but once you're inside, you'll feel at home.
The store has a calm atmosphere, and we strive to create a place where you can relax and look at items that interest you.

◾️About interactions with customers
What do you usually focus on when talking with customers?
We value a friendly atmosphere so that you can feel free to ask us anything you are curious about. Whether you are using leather products for the first time or looking for a gift, please feel free to contact us.
--Please tell us about any memorable interactions you have had with customers.
One customer who made a strong impression on me was a customer whose son had taken a liking to the Munekawa coin case she had been using for many years, and who happily told me, "My son took it away, so I came back to buy it again!"

I'm glad that you can enjoy the changes over time and use it for a long time, growing attached to it, and I was very touched to hear the wonderful story of how it has been passed down to your son.
--Are there many people who come from far away or who are repeat customers?
Some customers come to our store from far away when they come to Osaka. We often have fun talking with them about how they found out about Munekawa and about their stay in Osaka.
When I meet repeat customers, I often ask them to show me their favorite items and we end up talking about the aging of leather.
◾️ About Munekawa products
--What do you pay attention to when introducing products, and are there any questions you are often asked?
We strive to convey the points that Munekawa values, such as the functionality of each product and the ingenuity required to ensure long-lasting use .
At Munekawa, our production staff are the ones who serve our customers, so we think our strength is that we can introduce the details and key points of our products in detail.
A question I'm often asked is about the differences in the characteristics of leather .
At Munekawa, we use a variety of leathers, including Buttero, Maremma, and Bridle leather, even for the same product. We are often asked how each leather material differs, so we will explain their characteristics.

--Please tell us any tips or tricks to make shopping in-store more enjoyable.
Many of Munekawa's items have unique features, so if you actually pick one up, you'll be able to imagine how it will look when you use it.
We live in an age where shopping is conveniently available at online stores, but each leather product has its own unique characteristics and texture, made from natural materials, so we encourage you to visit our direct stores to find your favorite item.
Also, if you have any questions, please feel free to ask us anything.
◾️For those who are thinking about going to the store
--Is there anything you would like to say to people who feel like it might be a little difficult to get into?
You are welcome to just take a quick look inside the store , so we hope you will find the courage to come in.
You can touch the actual products, check the size and functions, and see the individuality and characteristics of the leather, and experience the charm of many leathers!

We place great importance on creating a store that conveys the charm of leather products and our personality.
This time, we introduced the directly managed store through an interview with Munekawa staff member Konishi.
The appeal of the Munekawa directly managed store is that you can actually see, touch, and talk about the products.
I think you can better appreciate the individual differences in leather and the unique charm of each product by holding it in your hands and listening to the makers' stories.
We want Munekawa's directly managed store to be a place where you can experience the charm of leather products in a relaxed and casual way.
If you are in the area, please feel free to visit us.
We look forward to seeing you all.
▶︎Click here for details on Munekawa directly managed stores
If you want to know more about Munekawa, check out
Blog: "How to get to Munekawa Direct Store"
Special feature page: "Why Munekawa values in-house production"