BUSINESSES THAT HAVE BEEN AROUND FOR OVER 1000 YEARS

Have you heard of companies like Kongo Gumi, Sean's Bar, and The Royal Mint?

What do they have in common? They are businesses that have survived wars, revolutions, and technological advancements for centuries. These are the world's oldest businesses. They are like living relics, storehouses of centuries of knowledge, tradition, and expertise.

Each of these companies will tell a story about the need for constant adaptation & evolution and their determination to succeed. From family ventures or local artisans to global empires, these businesses have witnessed history unfolding.

What is their secret? Let's dive in.

KONGO GUMI

ESTABLISHING YEAR: 578 AD

THE PAST

Kongo Gumi is an organisation that has been in operation for more than 14 centuries. It has withstood the havoc created by two atomic bombs. Established in 578 AD in Osaka, Japan, it was a family-run company for its entire history. Its history is over 1,400 years and it embodies the spirit of Japanese craftsmanship and tradition. Initially, the company was a construction firm specialising in building Buddhist temples.

The company's foundation coincided with the establishment of Buddhism as a dominant religion in Japan. It led to an increased demand for temple construction and provided Kongo Gumi with an ideal opportunity to establish its expertise in this specialised field. The company remained strong while facing political turmoil and natural disasters that threatened the very existence of the company's projects and infrastructure.

THE PRESENT

Kongo Gumi's business philosophy of blending tradition and innovation and embracing the values of the past while adapting to the demands of the present has helped ensure its relevance and long-term viability. The company's craftsmen are called "miya-daiku." They have upheld the woodworking traditions and passed down their skills from generation to generation.