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In a world where companies come and go quickly, one company stands out for having been in operation for almost 1.500 years. The world's oldest company has weathered many challenges
Thousands of companies are created and closed every day around the world. Some last for years, others only for months. Even the most valuable companies on the planet, which dominate entire sectors, only last for decades. existence. In this scenario, we will talk about the oldest company in the world.
But there is one striking exception. The oldest company in the world still in operation was founded almost 1.500 years ago. It is Kongo Gummi, a Japanese construction company that started its activities in 6th century.
Origin of Kongo Gumi — the oldest company in the world
The company's history begins in the year 578, when the Korean carpenter Kongō Shikō arrived in Japan.
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He was part of a group of artisans who specialized in building Buddhist temples. The country, which at the time was dominated by Taoism, was undergoing an intense process of adopting Buddhism.
To drive this change, the Japanese royal family decided to build the first Buddhist temple in the archipelago: Shitenno-ji, in Osaka.
Since there was no local workforce with knowledge of Buddhist architecture, Kongō Shikō and two other carpenters were invited to carry out the project.
Once the work was completed, Kongō Shikō decided to remain in Japan and founded Kongo Gumi, beginning a story that would span centuries.
Surviving time
Since the construction of Shitenno-ji, Kongo Gumi has specialized in the construction and restoration of Buddhist temples throughout Japan.
Throughout its existence, it has faced significant challenges, such as wars, economic crises and political changes. Still, it managed to remain active for almost a millennium and a half.
According to Hidekazu Sone, an associate professor at Shizuoka University of Art and Culture, the company's longevity is directly linked to the quality of its craftsmen and the efficient management of its leaders.
Historical records indicate that the company has always had the most skilled carpenters in Japan.
Internal competition between these professionals led to the constant improvement of construction techniques, ensuring Kongo Gumi's superiority in the market.
Leadership and tradition
For most of its existence, Kongo Gumi was run by direct descendants of Kongō Shikō. Forty generations of the same family have led the company. But this continuity was not based solely on blood ties.
The family always prioritized competence over tradition. If the firstborn did not demonstrate sufficient ability, another family member would take the lead.
If there were no male descendants, the daughters married talented carpenters, ensuring the continuity of management.
In the Edo Period (1603-1868), the Kongo Gumi faced fierce competition from other carpenter groups.
To stay in the market, it began to select leaders who, in addition to being good craftsmen, had administrative skills. This flexibility helped the company to overcome crises over the centuries.
Crises and restructuring
Despite its long history, Kongo Gumi has not been immune to hardship. In the early 20th century, during the Showa Depression, the company faced serious financial problems.
World War II also brought challenges.
With the economy devastated and demand for temple construction reduced, the company had to reinvent itself to survive.
However, the hardest blow came in 2006. Accumulating huge debts, Kongo Gumi was no longer able to operate independently.
It was then acquired by Takamatsu Construction Group, an Osaka construction company.
Legacy and influence
Today, Kongo Gumi continues to exist, but as a subsidiary of Takamatsu. Its historical identity remains alive, and its influence can still be seen in the construction and restoration of Buddhist temples throughout Japan.
However, no descendant of the Kongo family holds leadership positions in the company. Only one family member still works at the company, keeping the tradition alive in some way.
Kongo Gumi’s legacy goes beyond its corporate history. Its management model, its adaptation to change and the quality of its workforce are an example of longevity and resilience.
Few companies in the world can boast such an impressive track record.
Even without the independence of the past, Kongo Gumi remains a symbol of tradition and innovation in Japanese construction.
Em um mundo tão devastador para as empresas , saber que uma atravessou séculos, e uma inspiração para empreendedores, manter – se ativo e prosperar, seguir firme e focar o futuro, parabéns.