Interview with General Manager Fujiwara of .KOMBINAT
Opened in October 2021, .KOMBINAT.
We interviewed General Manager Fujiwara Shinya and asked about his thoughts on the store and Kurashiki.
Can you tell us about the background of the opening?
Fujiwara (honorific omitted)
Originally, I was running a shop called "72cafe."
As that 72cafe started to gain traction, I thought I would like to expand the business eventually.
I considered expanding to the area in front of JR Kurashiki Station, but there were no properties available at all.
However, one day while searching for properties on my bicycle, I came across the words "Kurashiki Redevelopment Association" right in front of me.
They were having a meeting at that time, so I asked if I could join and hear more about it.
That is the background of the opening.
Can you tell us about the store's commitment?
Fujiwara
The store's owner used to work at the Mizushima Industrial Complex, so there seems to be a strong attachment to it.
Most people think of Kurashiki as the Bikan Historical Area, but I wanted to convey that the Mizushima Industrial Complex is also representative of Kurashiki, which is why we named it ".KOMBINAT."
Since Kurashiki has a lot of Japanese taste, we have designed it to blend the Japanese elements of Kurashiki with the industrial elements of the Mizushima Industrial Complex.
Industrial: meaning industrial
Can you tell us about your main products and popular menu items?
Fujiwara
If we are talking about food, the pizza is definitely the most popular.
We are particular about our ingredients, blending domestic flour and using cheese sourced from Italy.
We bake it in a dedicated pizza oven.
Due to the demand for takeout during the COVID-19 pandemic, we also offer pizza for takeout.
Can you tell us about your feelings towards the store and what motivates you?
Fujiwara
The motivation comes from creating systems and ideas that attract customers, and when the staff on-site execute them and achieve results.
I believe that by ensuring profits, it leads to better lives for all employees.
Were there any unexpected aspects due to the impact of COVID-19?
Fujiwara
Yes, there were honestly many unexpected parts.
However, even amidst that, I am committed to generating sales.
Since all stores are in a tough situation, we must be conscious of that.
If there are no regular customers, we must work to create regulars, and I believe there is always something to be done.
I think it is important for each person to think and share a similar mindset.
Do you have any aspirations or things you would like to try in the future?
Fujiwara
I would like to develop the Kurashiki Afternoon Tea further.
Before that, since I am located in a place called "Achi Terrace Kurashiki," I need to promote Achi Terrace itself.
I believe that by promoting Achi Terrace, it will help liven up the area in front of JR Kurashiki Station.
During this time, I want to frequently plan and participate in markets to create an environment where people gather here.
I believe that this will also help the store grow, and people will become interested in which company is behind it.
Conclusion
Designed by Ishodo, which has handled restaurants like "72cafe," .KOMBINAT was created with the image of the Mizushima Industrial Complex.
Hearing General Manager Fujiwara's passionate thoughts about the store, I felt his desire to "liven up the area in front of JR Kurashiki Station by enhancing the store."
If you visit Kurashiki, why not stop by .KOMBINAT, where you can experience not only the Bikan Historical Area but also the Mizushima Industrial Complex?
Data of .KOMBINAT (Dot Kombinat)
| Name | .KOMBINAT (Dot Kombinat) |
|---|---|
| Address | 124 Achi Terrace Kurashiki, 3-9-1 Achi, Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture |
| Contact | 086-454-5000 |
| Parking | Available City-operated Achi Terrace Kurashiki Parking (paid) |
| Business Hours | 11:30 AM - 2:00 AM the next day |
| Regular Holiday | Tuesday |
| Payment Methods |
|
| Reservation Availability | Yes Smartphone order, so please bring a smartphone |
| Seating | 92 seats: 62 inside + 30 on the terrace |
| Toilet | Western-style toilet |
| Website | .KOMBINAT Ishodo Co., Ltd. |
