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Living Meichi

Our AANHPI Heritage, Our Everyday Mission

In celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) Heritage Month, we reflect on the deep-rooted values and cultural influences that have shaped Panasonic. From its founding in Japan in 1918, Panasonic’s heritage has been the foundation of its philosophy, leadership and commitment to innovation. To explore this legacy, we spoke with Panasonic Corporate History Office member Junichi Mizuno, who provided insight into how our roots continue to guide us today.

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Konosuke Matsushita at age 10 with Mrs. Godai at the bicycle shop

The Foundations of a Business Philosophy

Long before Panasonic became a global technology leader, its founder, Konosuke Matsushita, apprenticed at a bicycle shop in Osaka, Japan’s Semba district. This formative experience laid the groundwork for his business philosophy.

“The founder absorbed the basics of business: etiquette toward customers and the significance of making a profit,” explains Mizuno-san. “Semba merchants had a strong sense of social responsibility — despite their eagerness to trade, they never forgot the state, the nation or society.”

This ethos became central to Matsushita’s vision, inspiring Panasonic’s core belief in contribution to society through business.

The Unsung Hero: Mumeno Matsushita

Mumeno Matsushita played an equally critical role in shaping Panasonic’s future. Mumeno was Matsushita’s spouse and a co-founder of the company.

“Before Konosuke's venture found its footing, Mumeno sometimes had to pawn their belongings to make ends meet,” says Mizuno-san. “She also handled the accounting. Without her support, Matsushita would have gone bankrupt very quickly.”

Mumeno’s resilience and financial acumen ensured the company's survival in its early years, enabling its long-term success.

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Konosuke and Mumeno Matsushita, 1975

declaring meichi at the first foundation day ceremony on may 5 1932

Declaring Meichi at the first Foundation Day ceremony on May 5, 1932

The Birth of Meichi: A Mission-Driven Approach

A pivotal moment in Panasonic’s history occurred in 1932 when the founder visited the headquarters of the Tenrikyo religion in Nara Prefecture. Inspired by the dedication of its followers, he found clarity in his purpose as an industrialist: to eliminate poverty through business.

“The founder termed this revelation ‘Meichi’—'mei' meaning 'mission' and 'chi' meaning 'to know' in Japanese,” says Mizuno-san. “For the 94 years of his life and the more than 100-year history of Panasonic, Meichi has been the most important guidepost.”

Guided by the mission of contributing to a more prosperous society, Meichi continues to shape Panasonic’s commitment to living in the present and pursuing lasting well-being.

Honoring Our Heritage in Modern-Day Panasonic

 Panasonic’s deep roots to its AANHPI heritage remain strong. The company ensures that its foundational values are upheld across its global workforce by integrating them into daily operations.

“The headquarters revised the Basic Business Philosophy for the first time in nearly 60 years and translated it into 45 languages to help employees put it into practice in their day-to-day work activity,” Mizuno-san shares.

Within the Basic Business Philosophy is the company creed, which reads:

“Progress and development can be realized only through the combined efforts and cooperation of each employee for our company. United in spirit, we pledge to perform our corporate duties with dedication, diligence and integrity.”

junichi mizuno

By preserving the principles that shaped its origins, Panasonic continues to build on its legacy of purpose, stewardship and community. From advancing eco-conscious energy solutions to supporting workforce readiness and STEM education, Panasonic remains committed to innovation that serves society. The company’s people first philosophy is reflected in its inclusive workplace culture, robust mentorship programs and long-standing support of veterans and underrepresented communities. Panasonic’s legacy lives on through meaningful action and a clear focus on creating a better world.

A Legacy That Lives On

As we celebrate AANHPI Heritage Month, we honor the individuals and values that built Panasonic into what it is today. From the lessons learned in a small bicycle shop in Osaka to the global impact of Meichi, our heritage is more than history — it is the foundation of our future.

With a balance of staying deeply rooted in its foundation while embracing a forward-thinking mindset and dedication to bettering the world, Panasonic’s AANHPI heritage continues to nurture its vision for generations to come. Discover more about Panasonic’s rich legacy here.

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