The founder of Gifu Plastic Industry, Koei Omatsu, saw great potential in plastic, a material that was still little known in Japan during the difficult postwar years.

As he observed the early signs of a materials revolution emerging overseas, he became convinced that plastics would play an important role in shaping the future. With that conviction, he made the bold decision to leave his position at a textile company and embark on the challenge of starting a plastics manufacturing business.

That pioneering decision became the starting point of the spirit of “CHALLENGE” that continues to drive the Risu Plastic Group today.

Our First Step into Plastics: A Symbol of Challenge

At the time of our founding, we started the business from the ground up, with almost no capital, no credit, and no industry connections.

The first plastic molding machine we acquired was a Japanese-made prototype, purchased for approximately 1 million yen. While more advanced machines modeled after overseas equipment were already available, our limited financial resources made this modest yet practical choice the only realistic path forward.

Installed in June 1953, this first vertical injection molding machine became a symbol of the Risu Group’s pioneering spirit. Today, it remains proudly on display at our main factory office in Kakamigahara City, Gifu.

Soon after the company was founded, we began producing items such as ice cream containers and thread bobbins. However, these early products did not lead to significant commercial success.

Then, in September 1953, while riding his bicycle through Osaka in search of new business opportunities, our founder received a pivotal order from Kansai Plastic Trading Company: a round compact case for cosmetics.

Working late into the night, he repeatedly refined the mold design and traveled back and forth between Gifu and Osaka to deliver prototypes. At last, in late November of that year, the first lot of 500 units was successfully completed.

At the time, plastic was still a rare and unfamiliar material. Rather than being sold in the cosmetics section, the compact cases were displayed in the jewelry department, highlighting both their novelty and their sense of luxury.

In 1957, we introduced our first trademark as a way to distinguish our products and build a stronger brand identity.

Several animals were considered, but in the end, the squirrel was chosen. Loved for its friendly character and known for storing food in summer in preparation for winter, the squirrel embodied the qualities we hoped our products would come to share: to be cherished, trusted, and relied upon.

Our original logo featured an illustration of a squirrel. As our sales representatives visited customers across the market, our products gradually came to be recognized as “Risu’s Plastic,” helping to establish the RISU name.

Then, in 1989, on the occasion of our 35th anniversary, we introduced a renewed brand logo. Red was adopted as the key color, while the bold upward stroke forming the letter “R” came to symbolize freedom and creativity. The white “R” within the design represents the growing unity of the group.

Together, the new logo expressed RISU’s continuing leap toward the future.

In the fishing and agriculture industries, one product that has stood the test of time is the “Plasket,” first introduced in 1964.

The original model, No. 800, is still in production today with the same specifications, a testament to its enduring design and practical value. Its name, a blend of “plastic” and “basket,” has remained widely recognized and affectionately used over the years.

To promote its launch, a bold demonstration was staged in which a Plasket was pulled by a 4-ton truck to showcase its exceptional durability. The striking spectacle captured public attention and firmly established the product’s reputation for strength and reliability.

In the world of traditional plastering, tubs used for mixing mortar, cement, and other wall materials had long been essential tools. Known as PLA-FUNE, they were traditionally made of iron or wood.

In 1966, we introduced a plastic version of the PLA-FUNE. Lightweight and durable, and free from the rust problems common with iron tubs, it quickly gained acceptance among professionals in the trade.

As Japan entered a period of rapid economic growth and housing construction expanded dramatically, demand for plastering tools surged, accelerating the spread of plastic tubs across the industry.

The PLA-FUNE’s distinctive green color was chosen intentionally to resemble the appearance of traditional iron tubs, helping plasterers adapt more naturally to the new material. Over time, that green became one of the product’s defining features—an iconic and trusted presence on construction sites throughout Japan.

First introduced in 1972, the Très Bien condiment set soon became a symbol of refined tableware design.

Its rounded form, made of clear acrylic resin, conveyed both elegance and a sense of luxury through its crystal-like transparency. With its substantial presence and sophisticated appearance, the series went on to become a long-selling bestseller, distinguished by both its longevity and sales volume.

During television’s golden age in Japan, Très Bien frequently appeared on the dining tables of popular drama series, further strengthening its image as a product that captured the lifestyle and atmosphere of its era.

Building on that legacy, its successor, BLOOM, introduced a cherry blossom motif, bringing a fresh yet familiar elegance to contemporary tables. In recognition of its distinctive design, BLOOM was officially registered as a three-dimensional trademark in 2020.

Launched in 1987, the High Cooker was a groundbreaking heat-resistant container capable of withstanding temperatures of up to 275°F.

It was developed at a time when Japan was experiencing the rapid rise of convenience stores as a new retail format, while microwave ovens were becoming a common feature in households. As demand grew for containers that could safely be used for reheating take-out meals, the High Cooker was created to meet this emerging need.

The product quickly established a strong presence in the convenience store market. Its success was further strengthened by ongoing product improvements, including a specially designed base shape that enhanced product visibility on supermarket shelves. These thoughtful refinements earned the product a strong reputation and wide recognition under the name Heat-Resistant RISUPACK.

In the 1960s, as competition intensified in the household goods market, Gifu Plastic Industry began searching for a new field of growth and turned its attention to rigid PVC pipes.

Because pipe production itself required large-scale equipment, the company chose instead to focus on PVC pipe fittings, the essential components used to connect piping systems.

At the time, each pipe manufacturer was producing a wide variety of fittings on its own, creating clear inefficiencies. Recognizing this, Gifu Plastic Industry proposed a centralized production model. In 1963, after securing agreements with major pipe manufacturers, the company moved into full-scale production and sales.

This strategic decision led to the development of a broad range of fittings for water supply, drainage, and sewage systems, forming an important foundation for the company’s contribution to public infrastructure and its long-term growth.

In April 1971, Risu Kogyo Co., Ltd. was established as the first subsidiary of Gifu Plastic Industry. It began as a sales division dedicated to the civil engineering and construction sectors, handling PVC pipe fittings, building materials, and various civil engineering supplies.

Following its establishment, the development of PVC pipe fittings expanded to include water supply and drainage fittings, thin-walled drainage pipes, sewage pipes, and a wide range of related products such as basins for sewage systems. These developments enabled more customer-focused sales activities and product development tailored to market needs.

In 1975, Risupack Co., Ltd. was established as the second subsidiary of Gifu Plastic Industry to strengthen specialization in food packaging containers. To respond effectively to market trends—often driven by price competition and seasonal demand fluctuations—an integrated organization combining both production and sales was formed.

A key milestone was the introduction of a high-performance, large-scale sheet extrusion molding machine, which enabled in-house sheet production. This not only ensured stable quality but also contributed to cost reduction. The installation of this first machine laid the groundwork for a fully integrated production system, from sheet extrusion to final molding.

Established in 1985, Risu Co., Ltd. became a dedicated entity for the sales and planning of household goods. In response to the evolving and diverse needs of consumers, the company developed a system to create original, high-value products with both long-term vision and short-term responsiveness.

One notable achievement was the joint development of products with MUJI, where Risu played a vital role by providing integrated support from design through to production. This collaboration significantly contributed to MUJI’s product growth and brand development.

To further enhance these planning and development capabilities, Risu Joint Products Co., Ltd. was established in 2005 as a specialized company originating from the joint development division.

The use of industrial containers began in primary industries such as fisheries and agriculture, and later expanded into secondary sectors including automotive and machinery manufacturing. Over time, we developed a diverse range of specialized containers—such as large containers for automotive parts, stackable and conductive containers, reusable two-tone containers, and foldable containers designed as alternatives to corrugated cardboard.

These products, many of which remain in use across various industries today, were engineered to maximize transport efficiency. Among them, our foldable containers were especially groundbreaking. Easily assembled by anyone, they could be reduced to one-fourth of their original size when folded. By meeting the growing demand for efficient distribution, they played a key role in streamlining logistics and optimizing workplace operations.

In industries where wooden pallets were once the standard, plastic pallets have gained popularity due to their superior durability, hygiene, and mechanical properties. In 1990, Gifu Plastic Industry introduced large-scale injection molding machines and began full-scale pallet production.

In 1993, the company successfully developed pallets made entirely from recycled materials, laying the groundwork for the widespread adoption of recycled plastic pallets and helping to popularize black-colored pallets across the industry.

In response to regulations requiring infectious medical waste—such as gauze, bandages, needles, and surgical gowns—to be collected and incinerated in sealed containers, Gifu Plastic Industry developed highly sealed medical pails, launched in 1990.

The illegal dumping of medical waste had become a significant social issue, leading national and local governments to introduce stricter regulations and tougher penalties. As a result, demand for secure, compliant medical pails increased rapidly.

Today, Gifu Plastic Industry continues to innovate by developing containers with enhanced heat resistance, achieved by blending polycarbonate with conventional polypropylene. These containers are designed for repeated use after sterilization, contributing to a safer and more sustainable system for the disposal of infectious medical waste.

In 1985, a research paper revealed that Freon gases—commonly used as refrigerants in refrigerators and coolers—posed a serious threat to the ozone layer. In response, Gifu Plastic Industry made a decisive move in 1989 by replacing Freon with butane gas as the foaming agent in its sheet molding processes.

Around the same time, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) was the industry standard for transparent cup containers. However, due to growing concerns about the environmental impact of PVC, Gifu Plastic Industry proactively transitioned to A-PET (Amorphous Polyethylene Terephthalate), a safer and more environmentally friendly material. A-PET has a lower calorific value during incineration and produces CO₂ emissions comparable to paper, making it an exceptionally eco-conscious choice.

Although the switch to A-PET presented technical challenges, we overcame them through continuous improvements in molding technology, equipment, and materials. This led to the successful launch of A-PET containers in the market. Today, our transparent containers—sold under the RISUPACK brand—are recognized as industry leaders in environmental performance.

Our early adoption of butane gas and A-PET resin reflects our enduring commitment to sustainability. We remain dedicated to exploring innovative materials and technologies that reduce environmental impact while delivering safe, eco-friendly packaging solutions to our customers.

In the 1990s, as waste management became an increasingly pressing social issue and public awareness of recycling grew, local governments began implementing waste segregation programs. In response, RISU Corporation introduced a horizontally divided waste container in 1993, designed to make household waste sorting more convenient. This innovation marked the start of our Pedal Pale series—kitchen-friendly sorting pails tailored to daily life.

Since then, we have continually expanded our product lineup to meet diverse spatial and practical needs, including three-compartment containers and compact models with both horizontal and vertical configurations. These products have become popular items in home improvement stores across Japan.

At RISU, we remain committed to offering waste containers that adapt to evolving lifestyles and promote more sustainable living.

At RISU Corporation, we have been actively developing everyday products guided by the principles of Universal Design—creating items that are easy to use for people of all ages and abilities.

In 1999, we introduced a line of bathing products called Lasrevinu, a name formed by spelling “Universal” backward. We rethought traditional product sizes and capacities to reduce strain on the lower back when seated, improve comfort during body washing, and enhance the ease of scooping hot water with a bath bucket.

Since the 2000s, Universal Design has become a core philosophy in our product development, leading to the creation of numerous user-friendly products that support a wide range of lifestyles and physical needs.

In 1992, Risu Kogyo Corporation developed PLAWOOD, a plastic simulated wood product designed to promote environmental responsibility and support the recycling of plastic waste. Made entirely from recycled materials, PLAWOOD provided a stable, cost-effective alternative to natural wood and quickly gained recognition as an eco-friendly solution in the market.

Building on its proprietary molding technology, Risu Kogyo expanded the PLAWOOD lineup to include related items such as simplified steps and planters. As a pioneer in plastic simulated wood, the company’s products have been widely adopted in public infrastructure projects—including parks, walking paths, disaster evacuation routes, and retaining walls—particularly in government and municipal construction.

Today, the PLAWOOD series and other environmentally conscious products continue to contribute to sustainable development and the creation of greener communities.

To establish a full-scale presence in the medical field, we began supplying air filters for hemodialysis blood circuits in 2005.

In 2009, we further expanded our involvement by successfully receiving orders for caps used in dialysis equipment from a major medical device manufacturer.

In 2011, we acquired shares of Toei Kanki Co., Ltd. and established it as a subsidiary. Located in Seki City, Gifu Prefecture, Toei Kanki is a specialized manufacturer of PVC pipe fittings and had long been a valued customer of our subsidiary, Risu Kogyo’s fittings sales division.

While Risu Kogyo primarily focused on contract manufacturing for pipe manufacturers, Toei Kanki developed and marketed its own branded products, which were distributed through 12 branches and sales offices nationwide. The company was well known for its commitment to prompt delivery and attentive customer service. With its close proximity to our production facilities, minimal competition in the market, and solid management practices, the acquisition progressed smoothly.

Following the acquisition, Risu Kogyo’s fittings sales division was transferred to Toei Kanki. This strategic integration created strong synergies, significantly increased sales volume, and revitalized our overall fittings business.

Bioplastics derived from plants are environmentally friendly materials that utilize renewable resources, help conserve petroleum, and do not contribute to increased atmospheric CO₂ levels.

In the 1990s, plant-based resins began gaining attention as sustainable alternatives. In March 2003, Risupack became the first company in Japan to conduct test sales of food packaging containers made from polylactic acid (PLA), a resin derived from plants.

In 2005, Risupack’s PLA container became the first vacuum-formed PLA product certified by the Association of Polyolefin Hygienic Products. These containers were also selected as the official food containers for Expo 2005 Aichi, Japan—further cementing Risupack’s leadership in bioplastic food packaging.

This milestone opened the door for the expansion of bioplastic products into other fields within the group, underscoring our continued commitment to environmental innovation and sustainable manufacturing.

As consumer expectations for food safety and quality continue to rise, Risupack embraces the belief that "containers are also part of the food." Guided by this philosophy, we have issued our Declaration of Safety, Security, and Sustainability, built on the following three core principles:

1. Use of Materials Proven to Be Safe and Secure

2. Implementation of Reliable and Safe Production Systems

3. Development of Bio-based Products and the Realization of a Sustainable Society through Innovative Business Models

This declaration drives our commitment to advancing bio-based packaging and serves as a foundational principle in our mission to deliver safe, secure, and sustainable food solutions for future generations.

Driven by our commitment to environmentally conscious manufacturing, we set out in search of the world’s lightest resin or structure. With the cooperation of ITOCHU Corporation, we discovered a thermoplastic resin honeycomb structure developed using continuous molding technology at the Catholic University of Leuven in Belgium.

A honeycomb structure consists of a network of beehive-shaped hexagonal cells forming a hollow core, sandwiched between two surface layers. Renowned for having the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any structural form, it is an environmentally friendly material that greatly contributes to weight reduction.

In 2006, we signed a licensing agreement with EconCore, a spin-off from the university, and began commercializing the technology. By developing proprietary production equipment and accumulating in-house expertise, we became the world’s first company to achieve mass production of this advanced material.

Due to its outstanding performance and high level of refinement, the thermoplastic honeycomb structure has attracted significant attention across a wide range of industries and has led to numerous collaborative development projects aimed at addressing real-world challenges.

In 2007, in response to the growing risks of localized heavy rainfall and water-related disasters caused by urbanization, we developed the Risu Rain Stadium—a rainwater storage and infiltration tank designed to help control stormwater runoff into rivers.

While concrete tanks were once the industry standard, demand began to grow for lightweight, easy-to-install plastic alternatives. Leveraging our expertise as a leading injection molding manufacturer, we successfully developed a high-performance tank that improves on-site efficiency, reduces costs, and ensures consistent quality.

The tank’s use of recycled materials has also been recognized for reducing environmental impact. Since its introduction, the Risu Rain Stadium has seen widespread adoption in both public and private construction projects, solidifying our position in the rainwater management sector.

As climate change continues to drive more frequent and intense rainfall events, demand for our solution is expected to grow. We remain committed to meeting this demand and contributing to the creation of safer, more resilient communities.

Gifu Plastic Group continues to lead the industry in efforts to reduce CO₂ emissions through the adoption of biomass plastics. Beginning with food packaging containers, we have steadily expanded our use of bioplastics across diverse sectors—including household goods such as pails, sports equipment like pool materials, and logistics applications such as pallets, containers, and carriers.

With growing global demand for renewable alternatives to petroleum-based resources, we recognize the urgent societal need for the practical application of plant-derived plastics. Since the late 1990s, we have been engaged in continuous research and technological development in this field. In recent years, we have collaborated with government agencies, material suppliers, and equipment manufacturers to commercialize and promote bioplastic products.

Our early success in bringing these products to market—well ahead of others in the industry—is a testament to our long-standing commitment. As we look to the future, we remain dedicated to expanding the use of bioplastics into new areas and driving progress toward a more sustainable society.

We discovered that by adding small perforations to the surface of TECCELL, our proprietary honeycomb core material, it gains excellent sound-absorbing properties. In 2017, we launched TECCELL-SAINT, a soundproof panel developed to address industrial noise challenges.

Since its debut, we have received numerous inquiries from companies aiming to improve acoustic conditions in noisy factories or resolve noise complaints from nearby communities. Over the span of four years, we have successfully addressed more than 600 noise-related issues, contributing to better workplace environments and stronger community relations.

Furthermore, TECCELL’s combination of lightness and strength has led to its adoption in joint development projects for jet engine sound-absorbing panels, in collaboration with the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) and IHI Corporation.

As awareness of employee health and well-being continues to grow, addressing noise in factory environments—where excessive sound can be a serious burden—is becoming increasingly important, particularly in Japan’s manufacturing sector, which faces ongoing labor shortages. TECCELL-SAINT remains a highly practical, user-friendly solution with steadily growing demand across industries.

In 2017, we developed the RL-150T Competition Lane Marker with the goal of providing athletes with the optimal competitive environment. This product, selected for installation at the Tokyo Aquatics Centre, was specifically engineered to minimize the wave interference that occurs during swimming.

To objectively measure wave reduction performance, we established our own standard in collaboration with experts in oceanography and hydraulics. Guided by this framework, we designed a uniquely shaped lane marker that delivers the highest level of wave-dissipating functionality, verified through extensive research and testing.

Beginning with its use at the 2017 Ehime National Sports Festival, adoption of our lane markers has steadily expanded to certified pools across Japan.

We are especially proud that in 2021, our RL-150T lane markers were chosen as the official equipment for the swimming venue at the Tokyo Paralympics—a testament to our commitment to quality, innovation, and supporting athletes at the highest level of competition.

Guided by the concept of bringing “containers” as close as possible to “tableware,” we developed White PET PureWhite®—a new material that achieves a smooth, radiant whiteness reminiscent of fine porcelain.

This innovation enables the creation of food containers that not only fulfill their practical role but also enhance the visual appeal of any dining experience. With its elegant finish and refined appearance, PureWhite® supports a wide variety of menu presentations and elevates the quality of food display.

Thanks to its versatility and bright, glossy surface, PureWhite® has gained strong attention in the supermarket industry and has already been adopted by numerous retailers for its exceptional aesthetics and performance.

Since the introduction of our PLA-based material BioNeut, we have developed a wide range of biomass plastic containers to meet diverse needs across the market.

Our lineup includes:

PLA-H: A heat-resistant container made from natural PLA materials

BioDelica: A partially plant-derived plastic container

BioCups: Highly transparent cups widely used for fresh produce and salads

EcoA: A PLA hybrid container offering both heat resistance and clarity

BioHIPS: A glossy material extensively used for sushi and sashimi containers (as of 2020)

By 2023, biomass plastic containers accounted for over 47% of our total container sales—a clear indicator of both market demand and our rapid growth in this field.

As a leading innovator in biomass plastic container solutions, we remain committed to expanding our product offerings and contributing to the creation of a sustainable, recycling-oriented society.

Trunk Cargo is a durable and reliable storage box that has withstood the test of time. For over two decades, it has transcended changing trends and values to become a trusted staple in the market.

Since its launch in 1998, Trunk Cargo has featured a large, easy-to-carry buckle and a robust load capacity of 100 kg (220 lbs). More than 20 years later, it continues to be produced and embraced as a versatile storage solution—perfect for outdoor activities, DIY projects, garage organization, and even indoor use.

Its rugged yet minimal design, combined with practical functionality, has earned lasting popularity and widespread appeal. Trunk Cargo remains a dependable, timeless choice that delivers long-term value—unshaken by passing trends.

In 2011, revisions to the Water Pollution Prevention Act mandated the use of materials and structures capable of preventing the leakage and underground seepage of water containing hazardous substances. This regulatory shift created a strong demand for double-layered piping systems.

At the time, the standard method involved cutting and bonding two separate pipe joints—a process that was labor-intensive, time-consuming, and costly. To address these challenges, TOEI KANKI developed an innovative double-layered pipe joint that can be molded seamlessly as a single unit, eliminating the need for additional processing.

This breakthrough solution offers numerous advantages: it reduces overall costs, shortens lead times, improves safety, and simplifies installation—contributing to greater efficiency in construction projects.

A transparent version of the joint is also available, allowing for quick visual inspection and early detection of leaks. This feature significantly enhances facility maintenance by enabling faster response to issues, and has earned widespread recognition for its practicality and reliability.