about Us
At HC Japan Consulting, our mission is to help small and medium-sized enterprises from Japan and Europe take their first steps into new markets. Entering a new country can feel like a leap into the unknown—different consumer habits, distribution channels, and business cultures often create uncertainty. We offer a way to explore opportunities, test the waters, and gain a thorough understanding of the market before committing to major investments.
Caroline Hayashi brings more than 15 years of leadership experience in luxury companies such as LVMH or Richemont across Japan and Europe, combined with several years of consulting practice. She has successfully supported companies in launching products, strengthening the brand’s positioning and fostering long-term growth in new markets.
Our Approach
We believe that market entry should not be a gamble. Our role is to reduce uncertainty by providing clarity, insight, and practical support. By combining strategic foresight with hands-on execution, we enable our clients to make informed decisions, test their potential abroad and prepare for sustainable growth when the time is right.
Our strengths and expertise:
- Market Exploration & First Steps
- Helping companies gain an in-depth understanding of their target markets and consumers through research, product testing and building of initial business networks— essential insights before committing to larger investments.
- Brand & Product Launch Expertise
- Proven track record in designing and executing strategies that allow new products and brands to successfully establish themselves in competitive markets.
- Trade Fair Preparation & Support
- Extensive experience in developing both large-scale and boutique trade fair presences that create meaningful exposure, new connections, and long-term partnerships.
- B2B & B2C Experience
- Professional background across both B2B and B2C environments, with deep knowledge of distribution channels in various industries, particularly the Japanese and German food & beverage sectors.
- Import & Distribution Guidance
- Practical insights from first-hand experience as an importer of Japanese goods into the German market, including logistics, regulatory frameworks, and retail distribution.
- Cross-Cultural Consulting
- Strong expertise in navigating cultural nuances and building trust to enable effective collaboration between European and Japanese partners.
- Hands-On Support
- Advice is backed by personal, practical experience—both from a corporate career and from running a business. Projects are approached with a hands-on mindset, ensuring not only strategic planning but also operational support where needed.
For projects beyond the core focus areas – such as technical or medical B2B industries – HC Japan Consulting collaborates with a trusted partner, ensuring clients benefit from specialized expertise while maintaining a consistent, client-centered approach.