June 27, 2024
Keio University
The Regional Future Project (Professor in charge: Hiroyuki Kishi) of the Keio University Graduate School of Media Design (KMD) (Kohoku-ku, Yokohama; Dean: Masahiko Inakage) and MICOHANA Co., Ltd. (CEO: Sachiko Miyata) have commercialized "art flower phalaenopsis orchids" by utilizing "Super Flowers" made of paper. This initiative has been under commercialization research since August 2022 through the Design Management Seminar of the Kyushu Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry. This project proposes a new model for gift flowers by: (1) providing eco-friendly gift flowers with long-lasting quality by handcrafting each flower from high-quality paper using Japanese origami techniques; (2) creating employment opportunities in production for those who have difficulty leaving home, such as housewives raising children; and (3) contributing to the reduction of flower waste and carbon emissions by establishing a supply system that enables recycling and reuse.
Furthermore, to promote and raise awareness, we will begin demonstrations aimed at further improvement and demand expansion. This will be achieved by utilizing the restaurant network of Keystone Co., Ltd. (CEO: Shoichi Hosomi), a project participant that supports this initiative, for uses such as grand opening celebrations.
Please see below for the full press release.