Maruni is one of Japan’s leading names in traditional woodworking crafts, with a history spanning nearly a century. Founded in 1928 by Takeo Yamanaka, the company began its journey with the development of the bending wood technique, a groundbreaking approach that laid the foundation for Maruni’s later success. Over the years, the company has combined traditional craftsmanship with modern technology to produce elegant and functional furniture that has gained international recognition.
In 2005, Maruni launched the "nextmaruni" project, inviting designers from around the world to create innovative designs inspired by Japanese aesthetics but appealing to Western markets. In 2008, the company collaborated with renowned Japanese designer Naoto Fukasawa to launch the "MARUNI COLLECTION," a line of furniture that further solidified Maruni’s status as a global brand. By 2018, Maruni had established its "Maruni Global Branding" subsidiary to expand its international sales channels. Today, Maruni’s products are exported to over 30 countries, and the brand has become synonymous with high-quality design worldwide.
However, with increased brand recognition came the risk of imitation and infringement. Maruni initially faced a warning letter from a local company in one of its international markets, a situation that led the company to realize the importance of intellectual property rights. Despite their claims of not infringing on any design patents, the company had to deal with unexpected legal fees and other related costs. This experience prompted Maruni to reassess its intellectual property strategy.
In response, Maruni turned to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) for guidance and support in safeguarding its global trademarks. By utilizing WIPO’s Madrid and Hague Systems, Maruni successfully registered its "Maruni" trademark in key international markets such as Canada, the European Union, South Korea, Singapore, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This comprehensive approach allowed the company to ensure effective protection for its brand across multiple regions and safeguard against potential infringements. The partnership with WIPO provided Maruni not only with legal protection but also with a platform to strengthen its global brand presence.
Today, Maruni continues to focus on sustainable production practices and reducing its carbon footprint. With a forward-looking vision, the company remains committed to producing high-quality, beautifully crafted wooden furniture that will be loved around the world for the next 100 years. By securing its intellectual property rights with WIPO, Maruni is positioned to grow its brand internationally and defend its legacy in the global marketplace.
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