"Akio's Statement #2: Top Notch"

Toyota's New Year's Message: Emphasizing Local Focus and Community Connection

In a significant move, Akio Toyoda, then executive vice president of Toyota, delivered a New Year's message in 2007, emphasizing a new philosophy for the company. The message, simple yet insightful, was a departure from the typical discourse one might expect from a leader of a large global company.

Toyota had experienced rapid growth in vehicle production volume by this time, but concerns about quality keeping pace with this growth were beginning to surface. In response, Toyoda introduced a philosophy that placed a strong emphasis on people and local communities.

Using the analogy of "three dentists in France," Toyoda underscored the importance of being the best in a local community. He encouraged Toyota affiliates, plants, distributors, and dealerships to strive to be the best in their respective towns, focusing on the people in front of them rather than intangible goals.

In his speech, Toyoda expressed the "best city" philosophy, emphasizing Toyota's commitment to creating vehicles that make people smile and contribute to society. This commitment to values and high standards was a clear reflection of Toyota's dedication to its customers and the communities it serves.

Toyoda's philosophy may prove instrumental in guiding decisions as society undergoes a paradigm shift in values. By placing a premium on local trust and community connections, Toyota is positioning itself to navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

In summary, Akio Toyoda's New Year's message in 2007 marked a significant shift in Toyota's approach to business. By focusing on local communities and the people they serve, Toyota is demonstrating a commitment to values and high standards that will undoubtedly contribute to its continued success.