Mori Matcha is a brand new Vancouver-based matcha company that offers customers the chance to elevate their tea moments with their premium Kyoto Uji matcha. Owner Keiya Morikawa started Mori Matcha with a bigger goal. His dream is to one day serve Mori Matcha at his own Japanese-style onsen here in BC. He knew he needed to start first with a tasty and nourishing beverage like tea. We spoke with Morikawa to learn more.
What is your business called and what does it do?
Mori Matcha – We import high-quality matcha from Kyoto, Japan, from select farms.
What made you want to do this work?
I wanted to create a wellness business, as this is part of my ultimate plan to create a Japanese-style onsen here in BC. To have a great onsen, you need good food, good drink, souvenirs and wellness. I have already established my food, drink and souvenir side of the business.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
I found that there are many products labelled as “matcha”, but most are powdered green tea or low-quality products, making it difficult to experience the true aroma and flavour of matcha.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Matcha beginners and matcha lovers. Our range has a matcha for everyone to try.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
I sell our matcha at various events and markets in the Lower Mainland and also at my restaurant. We also sell online. At some events and farmers’ markets, I am making matcha lattes.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
My matcha can be found at my restaurant, Mr. Japanese Curry, at 446 West 8th Avenue in Vancouver.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
Where do we source the matcha from? I notice other matcha drink sellers cannot answer such questions and get it from a supplier. We have exclusive contracts with family-run businesses and medium-sized businesses in Kyoto, Japan, and we have visited each of their farms before we selected their matcha.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
I love to share more and more of Japanese culture and traditions with Canadians and see them enjoy it as much as I do. Worst part is having someone not like our matcha or think it tastes bad.
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
Kizuna Sake (which I am a part of) is producing local, fresh sake in the Okanagan by our very talented sake master, Yoshiaki Kasugai.
