Sumitomo Corporation's history dates back to the 17th century, when Masatomo Sumitomo opened a book and medicine shop in Kyoto. Masatomo wrote and left for posterity a document entitled "Monjuin Shiigaki (Founder's Precepts)," describing how a merchant should conduct business. Forming the basis of Sumitomo's Business Philosophy of pursuing integrity and sound management rather than easy gains, these teachings have been passed down and adhered to across the Sumitomo Group for 400 years, right up until today.
After Masatomo's time, the Sumitomo business grew and flourished in the copper mining and refining industry and other related sectors. Embracing the credos of "Benefit for self and others, private and public interests are one and the same" and "Grand Design," which, respectively, emphasize the importance of social contribution and an enterprising spirit, the Sumitomo Group has gone on to become one of Japan's leading corporate groups, with interests in finance, insurance, steel, real estate and others. Sumitomo Corporation is a major player within the group.
