Jatai International was established in California in 1950 as the first liaison office to promote commerce between Japan and the United States following World War II. Its mission was to help bridge the gap between America and Japan following the war years.
The founder of the company, Mr. Fred Wada was a major influence in bringing the Japanese swimming team to participate in the U.S. national championships. His work in this arena eventually led to his being named to the Tokyo Olympic Committee in the years leading up to 1964.
Mr. Wada worked tirelessly around the world influencing countries to support bringing the Olympics to Tokyo for the 1964 summer games. When Tokyo was ultimately selected as the next Olympic destination for the games, it was this landmark decision and event that changed Japan forever … from a post-wartime economy, into its current economic leadership position in the world today.
After the company’s early work was concluded, Jatai was headed up by Mr. Kay Obayashi whose expertise in foreign commerce steered the company into the import business, and within a few years, was importing hair cutting razors and blades from Shishido cosmetics under the SORI brand. Thus, began Jatai’s long and respected history in the beauty and barber industry.
