More than trends, consumers need functionality. Everything needs an element of fashion, but that's more like a spice.

In general, the apparel industry isn't about continual process improvement or making the perfect piece of denim; it's about chasing trends.

I think like a Silicon Valley entrepreneur. Failure is a great teacher. At the same time, you must remember, success will never last... Whether it's tech or fashion, it must be for the customer.

The world's major metropolitan cities are more or less the same.

Opening new stores outside of Japan is important, but training our employees is even more important.

Our international success started out first because we became the No. 1 casual wear brand in our home market of Japan. Then, we set up stores in the world's major fashion centers of New York, Paris and London.