The name MUJI is derived from the first part of Mujirushi Ryōhin, translated as “No Brand Quality Goods.”
MUJI began in the early 1980s as a private/generic brand of the Seiyu discount department store.
MUJI is distinguished by its design minimalism, emphasis on recycling, avoidance of waste in production and packaging, and no-logo or "nobrand" policy.
HISTORY
In 1980 Mujirushi Ryōhin opens in the departmental store.
In 1983, the first directly operated Mujirushi Ryōhin store opened.
In 1985, started overseas production and procurement.
In 1986, started to place direct factory orders.
In 1987 Muji started to develop material globally.
In 1989, Ryohin Keikaku Ltd became the manufacturer and retailer for all
Mujirushi Ryōhin products and operations.
In 1991, first international store opened in London, UK.
In 1995, shares in “Muji Tsunan Campsite” were registered as over-thecounter shares of Japan Securities Dealers Association.
In 1998, listed on the second section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
2001 onwards, it was listed on the first section.
The brand name ”MUJI" appears to have been used since 1999.
IKKO TANAKA
Ikko Tanaka (January 13, 1930 – January 10, 2002) was a well-known
Japanese graphic designer. The characteristic of his designs is a blending of deeply rooted Japanese traditions with western modernism to produce contemporary visual expression. Tanaka studied art at the Kyoto City School of Fine Arts. He worked at the Sankei Shinbun, and subsequently established his first design studio in Tokyo, the
Ikko Tanaka Design Studio, in 1963. He has received several awards, published several books, has curated and designed exhibitions throughout Japan. Tanaka articulated the MUJI vision and appearance, and he provided ideas and prototypes that visualized the design strategy. He worked as MUJI's art director until 2001.
KAZUKO KOIKE
Born in Tokyo in 1936. As a founding member of the MUJI