On behalf of everyone at the Pioneer Group, I would like to
express my heartfelt condolences to all those who suffered the
loss of a loved one in the Great East Japan Earthquake, as well
as my sympathies to all those who continue to suffer in the
aftermath of the disaster. I earnestly hope that everyone
affected will stay safe and that the devastated areas will be
reconstructed and recover as soon as possible.
Some Pioneer Group companies are located in the disaster-stricken areas. I am thankful to be able to report that all of the Group's employees were unharmed by the earthquake and remain safe. There was, however, significant damage to offices and residences, as well as utilities and other basic infrastructure. I am extremely grateful to everyone who worked so tirelessly to recommence operations under such terribly difficult conditions.
Under these circumstances, all the members of the Pioneer Group were quick to organize the delivery of emergency provisions to affected areas. Group companies in Yamagata, a prefecture where damage was relatively light compared to other parts of the disaster-stricken Tohoku region, were particularly diligent in their efforts to provide support. This, I believe, is a clear indication of the solidarity and strength of the Pioneer Group. Complementing the hard work undertaken in Japan, donations were gratefully received from Group company employees both in and outside of Japan.
This strong sense of compassion and unity, easily taken for granted in everyday life, is a source of significant strength and power in times of adversity. I am again reminded of how important human relationships are to society as a whole.
Endeavoring to realize the Pioneer Group Philosophy, "Move the Heart and Touch the Soul," Pioneer has brought to market a steady stream of revolutionary electronic products since its founding in 1938. This philosophy articulates our aspiration to share the richness of human experience with as many people as possible, and it guides our dreams and our daily work at the Pioneer Group. Transcending national and ethnic boundaries, we hope to deliver untold wonders through communication that encompasses sight, sound, and information.
In April 2010, Pioneer formulated its 2015 Vision: "Spread the smiles. Feel the vibes. Share the passion. Pioneer engages you anytime, anywhere." This vision conveys a clear, specific image of how the Pioneer Group seeks to evolve. Under it, we set guidelines and targets in each of five broad themes: relationships with customers; company, employees, and corporate culture; product and value propositions; relationships with society and business partners; and presence on the street, in the car, and at home. These targets are to be achieved by 2015. The 2015 Vision provides Pioneer with the strategies to continue its journey along a path of renewed growth.
Having recently experienced the devastation of an earthquake disaster, the importance of close ties between people becomes all the more relevant in realizing our corporate vision and commitment to "smiles and passion" as well as our philosophy, "Move the Heart and Touch the Soul."
At the Pioneer Group, we recognize that, in fulfilling our corporate social responsibilities, we must continue to deliver products and services which move the hearts and touch the souls of as many people as possible, while we conduct business activities in a sound manner that meets social expectations. In this context, we will continue to build a management foundation characterized by long-term stability, and find solutions, one by one, for the many ongoing challenges and hurdles that we face. Committed to this effort, we will address the various social issues raised by the Group's wide-ranging and diverse stakeholders.
Recognizing the critical importance of close ties between people, we will work diligently on a daily basis to fulfill our corporate social responsibilities to the greatest possible extent.
As we work to achieve these goals, I request your continued support and understanding.
November 2011
Susumu Kotani
President and Representative Director
