Happy New Year, everyone!
Today marks the start of operations for both SOPHOLA Inc. and Markopolo AI Japan Inc.

Last year, SOPHOLA received several global awards, m19 Japan became an Amazon Advanced Partner and significantly increased its customer base, and MerchantSpring launched its full-scale operations in Japan. Additionally, Markopolo AI Japan has completed its website development by the end of last year, and we are now conducting the final checks on the product in the Japanese language environment before the official domestic launch. Furthermore, in our traditional crafts business, a client company has been appointed as an official ambassador by Japan’s Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries, which is a very exciting development for us.

In 2025, we plan to strengthen the marketing and PR activities for our three services, while also enhancing and solidifying our operations and support systems. These technology solutions have a high competitive edge in the Japanese market, so we are confident in continuing our efforts with a focus on sustainable growth. Also, due to strong client requests, we plan to diversify the product range in our traditional crafts business, offering clients more choices.

Lastly, in the areas of academia and hobbies, I intend to expand on my interests, which have grown through my MBA and mountain climbing experiences, and pursue them at a pace that is both sustainable and fulfilling.

I sincerely wish this year brings great accomplishments and joy to all of you. I look forward to your continued support throughout the year!

P.S. ChatGPT is so excellent that I can’t help but express my gratitude every time I receive help (laughs). Does anyone else do that? (laughs) The photo is of “National Treasure, Nishina Shinmeigu Shrine,” which I visit every New Year’s since moving here. The shrine has over 1,000 years of history, and it is a place where I feel an incredibly mysterious energy.

Masaki “Mark” Iino
Founder & CEO
SOPHOLA, Inc