Tiger Corporation, a renowned Japanese manufacturer known for producing vacuum insulated bottles and electric appliances like thermos flasks and rice cookers, has recently gained media attention due to a long-standing internal legend. This legend claims that the company once kept a tiger as a pet, sparking curiosity among netizens.
The Legend of the Tiger
Many young employees at Tiger Corporation have heard stories from their seniors about the company's past, with most dismissing these tales as mere jokes. However, the company has confirmed that it did indeed keep a tiger for a period. In October 1969, to enhance public awareness of its brand, Tiger Corporation imported a young female tiger named Honey from Malaysia, housing her at their headquarters in Osaka.
Honey's Popularity
Honey quickly became a beloved figure within the company, participating in various advertising campaigns across television, magazines, and newspapers. The founder of Tiger Corporation, Takenori Kikuchi, was closely associated with Honey during her time at the company. Many employees fondly remember her and would visit her at the zoo after she was relocated at 11 months old.
Modern Regulations
In today's world, keeping exotic animals like tigers is heavily regulated under international treaties, making it unlikely that such practices could be repeated. The revelation of this story has left many Japanese netizens astonished. A social media manager from Tiger Corporation shared their own surprise upon learning about Honey during their early days at the company.
"This photo shows Honey, the tiger that once starred in advertisements for Tiger Corporation, alongside our founder. I was equally shocked when I first heard about this story from my seniors."
Conclusion
The tale of Tiger Corporation's tiger not only highlights a unique chapter in the company's history but also serves as a reminder of how corporate legends can capture public imagination.
