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Learn the rules.
Then break the rules.

Ulpa enables the entry, integration and scaling of foreign companies in Japan, making the impossible possible.

about

01.
the problem

‘Entering Japan's market is daunting. Marketing strategies that work elsewhere fall short; investments yield minimal returns, and connecting with local consumers is challenging.’

02.
our mission

We are driven by the mission to enable foreign companies to operate in Japan without limits. We educate clients on the nuances of market entry, product alignment and operations, allowing them to not just play by the rules but to redefine them.

03.
our vision

By using data-driven marketing strategies backed by deep local experience, we tailor strategies that challenge the conventional, ensuring our clients thrive while entering, integrating and scaling their business in Japan.

04.
our clients

Our clients are disruptors and innovators looking to enter the Japanese market with fresh, agile solutions; they often have a proven track record in their home countries and are enjoying hyper growth outside of Japan.

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solutions

01.
simplifying entry

We offer strategic insights and demystify the entry process, preparing companies for a smooth market entry, laying the framework for innovative and rule breaking market engagement.

Services: qualitative research, quantitative research, market segmentation, product fit research, category profiling, and due diligence.

02.

integrating locally

We facilitate seamless integration into the Japanese market, enhancing your operational capabilities through strategic partnerships, audits and essential guidance.

Services: fractional leadership, platform implementation, mobile integration, partnership management, contract negotiation, on and offsite SEO audit.

03.

scaling rapidly

We scale revenue growth through advanced digital strategies and data-driven insights, enhancing brand salience, driving consumer engagement, and increasing market penetration for sustainable success.

Services: end-to-end digital campaigns, content creation, social media management, influencer marketing, affiliate marketing, paid search, pr/viral/guerilla campaigns, event production, customer lifecycle management.

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partners

01.
Fear No Truth

Fear No Truth is an independent strategy practice based in LA that helps agency, start-up and marketing leaders everywhere to find, tell and manage their brands’ true stories. Click here to find out more.

02.
b8ta Japan

b8ta is a modern retail company that focuses on creating an immersive shopping experience for customers and providing a platform for product makers to launch and get feedback on their latest innovations. Click here to find out more.

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origin

Ulpa's Origin Story
Simplifying Japan's Complex Market

"The inception of Ulpa stems from a deeply personal journey—one shaped by decades of firsthand experience navigating the intricate labyrinth of Japan's business landscape. As someone who has spearheaded market entries in Japan and facilitated the expansion of Japanese companies overseas, I intimately understand the frustrations and challenges inherent in launching a new venture in this enigmatic market.

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It became evident that while everyone acknowledges Japan's reputation as a frustratingly complex market, only some are actively working to simplify the process. This realisation sparked the vision for Ulpa—a vision born out of a desire to bridge the chasm between complexity and accessibility in Japan's business ecosystem.

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Ulpa represents the culmination of years spent mastering the rules, only to realise that true innovation lies in knowing when to break them. Over the years, I've been fortunate to have developed a rich network, a depth of experience, and a talent for what works in Japan, which I can now share with challenger companies entering the market in Japan.

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At the core of Ulpa's mission are three fundamental pillars: simplifying entry, integrating locally, and scaling rapidly. These pillars are the bedrock upon which successful market entry and long-term growth are built. Ulpa is dedicated to transforming your strategic hopes into tangible realities as you embark on your adventure in Japan."

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Thanks for dropping by,

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Paul J. Ashton

Founder @Ulpa

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contact

Ask us anything...

Thanks! We'll be in contact soon.

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