❸The editor's note

Asian-born bulk

 When buying dried goods or beans, Abe and Shimoyama of Torocco put them in the bento box they brought and wrap them in a single cloth furoshiki, tying it into a bag shape to take home.

Listening to Torocco's daily routine, it reminded me of the classic Japanese style that was often seen in old shopping streets, such as stores specializing in Miso barrels or freshly shaved bonito flakes, contrasting with the Western-style bulk sales.

“That's actually where our ideas originated. Not only in Japan, when you go to Korea, for instance, there are many kinds of kimchi lined up in barrels, and in India, there are spices. Essentially, the culture and life of each land has been lived together with the selling of scales. We run the Torocco while finding the origin in the indigenous culture that was right under our feet”.

Living in the U.S., where bulk sales are a part of everyday life, I suddenly find myself wishing for a store like Torocco aims to be.

I envision combining the wisdom of Tenugui hand towels, Furoshiki wrapping cloths, and bento boxes with local Oregon ingredients suitable for Japanese cuisine. What if I could blend elements rooted in my hometown with those of my current residence, creating something that positively impacts the planet as a whole? If this fusion could bring a bit of joy and warmth to our chaotic society, perhaps I'm being a bit too idealistic.

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 These original notes were written in 2021, right after I launched Soen, more as a web-based imaginary playground rooted in my background in editing and writing.