On Friday 21 October, eXpression was hosted by Masaki Noke, Japan's Ambassador to Sweden. Shinya Tatematsu also attended the meeting., First Secretary. The aim was to talk about our respective businesses and build relationships for the future.

Fun and honored to have such a nice visit. In many ways we feel a connection to Japan, not least because we have been there on study trips. There's a commonality in our approach to design and craftsmanship, and we have a lot to learn. It's always useful and interesting to make new contacts," says Barbro Renkel, CEO of eXpression Umeå.

The ambassador is visiting Umeå for the opening of Komatsu Forest's new production facility at klockarbäcken. But there were a few well-chosen company visits during the stay.

In addition to checking out the eXpressions premises, there was also a visit to the School of Design. Demian Horst, senior lecturer at Umeå Institute of Design (UID), is pictured showing the ambassador the work of the students.

Photo: eXpression Umeå