Historical Events Suggest a Vision of the Future
The Mitsubishi Group’s members, many affiliated and wholly owned subsidiary companies, strategically represent a diversified business matrix. Each member within the Group operates with autonomy, while displaying its own characteristics and sharing historical background and management philosophies. The common philosophies are the Three Principles.
The Three Principles are the management philosophies created by the fourth president, Koyata Iwasaki and are considered to be “Mitsubishi’s DNA,” inherited like an unbroken yarn of traditions. Backed by these philosophies the whole Group continues active operations in a form of open organizations.
The Three Guiding Principles of Mitsubishi’s Business Management Philosophy
Shoki Hoko
“Shoki Hoko”= Corporate Responsibility to Society
Strive to enrich society, both materially and spiritually,
while contributing towards the preservation of the global environment.
‘Commerce is a public undertaking and one requiring corporations to take responsibility for many of the interests affection the countries in which they operate. This philosophy has been a cornerstone of Mitsubishi’s management policies from its beginnings. In order for a corporation to create sustainable prosperity, it is essential that it operates in a manner that is conducive to achieving this goal for the greater society.’
Shoji Komei
“Shoji Komei”= Integrity and Fairness
Maintain principles of transparency and openness,
conducting business with integrity and fairness.
‘President Koyata was known to have repeatedly cautioned Mitsubishi managers against focusing blindly on profits and losing sight of the Group’s adherence to a high standard of ethical behavior amid unprecedented competition, urging them to respond to competitors’ unscrupulous business practices with integrity and forbearance. He reminded them often of the importance of meeting the expectations of their customers and the public by exhibiting high ethical conduct in all their transactions. He was also well known for his observance of cultural differences around the world and the local customs of the communities in which Mitsubishi conducted business.’
Ritsugyo Boeki
“Ritsugyo Boeki”= Global Understanding through Business
Expand business, based on an all-encompassing global perspective.
‘At the outbreak of the Pacific War, President Koyata made a bold statement about the friendship between international business partners now separated by war: “We count many British and Americans among our partners. They have undertaken many projects with us and so should peace come again, they will once again become good and faithful friends.”
Historical Events Suggest a  Vision of the Future
The Birth of Mitsubishi Establishing Mitsubishi in a  Time of Tremendous Upheaval and Change Yataro Iwasaki Mitsubishi Founder
An Unusually Insightful and Judicious Leader Yanosuke Iwasaki Mitsubishi’s 2nd President
First Step to Modern Management Hisaya Iwasaki Mitsubishi’s 3rd President
Another Visionary Businessperson Leads Mitsubishi Koyata Iwasaki Mitsubishi’s 4th President
Rebuilding Japan’s Infrastructure  a Transitional Process for Mitsubishi
Focusing on the Long-Term Future  a Century of Solidarity for Mitsubishi
next The Birth of Mitsubishi Establishing
Mitsubishi in a Time of
Tremendous Upheaval and Change