The Sumitomo Spirit
The Sumitomo Spirit grew out of the guiding principles set down by Sumitomo founder Masatomo Sumitomo in his "Monjuin Shiigaki" (the Aphorisms of Monjuin). This corporate spirit has been developed, deepened, and handed down over generations in the Sumitomo Family enterprise, and its essence was distilled in the Rules Governing the Sumitomo family established in 1882, and formulated into two business principles in 1891. Although there were some corrections to the wording, the Business Principles have been inherited with no change in the contents up to now.
Business Principles
-
- Article 1
- Sumitomo shall achieve prosperity based on solid foundation by placing prime importance on integrity and sound management in the conduct of its business.
-
- Article 2
- Sumitomo’s business interest must always be in harmony with public interest; Sumitomo shall adapt to good times and bad times but will not pursue immoral business.
The Business Principles Article 1 emphasizes the importance of integrity; that is, being worthy of the trust of others.
In its first part, Article 2 speaks of the importance of working proactively, pursuing profit by quickly and appropriately responding to changes in society and not being content with the status quo. At the same time, Article 2 emphasizes the importance of harmonizing business gains with the public interest and scorns reckless or careless actions in pursuit of easy gain. While furi means easy, temporary or short-term gain, the term also implies unfair profit obtained through dishonest means.
In addition, the Sumitomo Spirit also includes the following principles.
- Attaching Importance to Technology
- Respect for Human Resources
- Long-Range Planning
- Mutual Prosperity, Respect for the Public Good
Products of Sumitomo Electric Industries Group
