On September 17, Panasonic announced the first products in its new home appliance series, "J Concept": an air conditioner, vacuum cleaner, and refrigerator. Development involved surveying over 30,000 users to pursue essential functions, usability, and designs resonating with Japanese aesthetics. This series, listening closely to Japanese lifestyles, targets primarily those in their 50s and 60s—a generation whose experience has honed their discernment to see the essence of things.
In response to comments like "I can't eat as much as I did when I was younger," but "I still want to insist on deliciousness," the series offers refrigerators focused on preserving vegetables and fish. For those who feel "housework is starting to feel a bit more burdensome," but "still want to keep up with it properly," it provides vacuum cleaners so lightweight that carrying them isn't a chore. Addressing concerns like "mornings have gotten colder" and "I've started wearing multiple pairs of socks," the series includes air conditioners designed to warm your feet.
From October 8th to 21st, an event expressing the world of J Concept under the theme "The Form of Japan's High-Quality Lifestyle" was held at the "Hajimarino Cafe" on the 7th floor of the Main Building at Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store in Tokyo.
This space is an experimental new venture by Mitsukoshi, aiming to support people of all ages who want to keep challenging themselves by selling experiences and activities rather than just products.
Products were displayed within a Japanese-style setting, featuring a touch-and-try corner. During the event, we collaborated with eight magazines (Sarai, Croissant, Mono Magazine, eclat, ESSE, Orange Page, Lettuce Club, and Sankyu!). Workshops were held on topics like Japanese cuisine, sake, woodworking, and quality living. The cafe space opened as the "Nippon no Te-waza Cafe" (Japanese Handicrafts Cafe) to celebrate Sarai (Shogakukan) magazine's 25th anniversary, themed around "the beauty of utility." It introduced traditional Japanese handicrafts, such as pottery and lacquerware, which also embody the J Concept's approach to craftsmanship.
The first J Concept products began rolling out for sale in late October, with plans to expand the product lineup going forward.
Official website: http://panasonic.jp/jconcept/