A peak behind the scenes with Reiko
Reiko has been working in customer service at Hokkai Suisan for 8 years. She has a lot of contact with our customers and drivers and makes sure that all orders are delivered on time. Being Japanese in the Netherlands, she finds it interesting to find the balance between Japanese and European wishes.
What does your working day usually look like?
“Around 09.00 hours I get in front of my computer with a cup of coffee. First I check my inbox for urgent questions. Think of a customer who is suddenly unable to receive his order. Or someone who would rather have his order delivered at his neighbour. Since we deliver frozen products, it is very important that the orders are put in the freezer immediately after delivery. That’s why I always contact our driver in the morning, who has already started driving early.
Our Hokkai drivers deliver in the larger cities in the Netherlands, Germany, Belgium and France. In the other cities and countries, FedEx delivers the orders at home to our customers. Together with my colleagues in the production hall, I make sure that all orders are ready in time for the driver. We add dry ice to the orders to ensure the quality of the fish products during transport.”
What do you like about your work?
“The connection with Japan. Although I have lived in Europe for 23 years and in the Netherlands for 19, Japan remains my home country. I have a lot of contact with Japanese customers, which I really enjoy. In recent years, we have also been reaching more and more non-Japanese customers, which brings interesting challenges for our business operations. The cultural differences are huge, which I, as a Japanese in Europe, understand very well. I communicate these differences to my non-Japanese colleagues and to FedEx. I enjoy thinking along about the right balance between Japanese and European wishes and expectations.”
Which fresh frozen fish product do you prefer to cook with?
“I am a fan of mackerel. It contains a lot of good fats, which promote health. Shime Saba (mackerel in vinegar) is my favourite. I like to flambé it a little to make it even tastier. I find it important to enjoy the pure fish flavour and eat the mackerel with just a little soy sauce and grated fresh ginger. Add a glass of wine or beer with it and it’s real treat!”
Have you become enthusiastic about working at Hokkai Suisan?
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