Chapter 162: Chapter 146 James Yoel meet Zaboru
Friday, January 3, 1992
Following the lively company celebration the day before, ZAGE employees returned to work with high spirits, knowing the weekend was just around the corner. Their enthusiasm translated into efficient work as they focused on the January release of two highly anticipated games: "Z-Man" and "SpongeBob," as well as Ayumi Games' "Karate Bunny." With everything proceeding smoothly, Zaboru took the opportunity to oversee the projects while also making progress on the upcoming February releases.
Just as he was about to delve deeper into development plans, a knock on his office door interrupted his thoughts. Yumi, his ever-reliable assistant, peeked in. "Boss, there's someone here to see you. He says he's from Emerald Wings, a U.S. distribution company specializing in Japanese products. Should I let him in?"
Zaboru raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "A foreign distribution company? Interesting. Let him in. I'll speak with him personally."
Yumi nodded and swiftly left to inform the receptionist. Within minutes, she returned, escorting a tall, well-dressed foreigner into the office. The man, exuding confidence, extended a hand toward Zaboru with a friendly smile.
"Go on, James-san," Yumi prompted.
"Oh, thank you, Ichijou-san," the man replied before turning to face Zaboru. His Japanese carried a heavy accent, but it was understandable. "Hello, Zaboru Renkonan-san. My name is James Yoel, and first of all, I must say—I am a huge fan of your work!"
Zaboru chuckled, shaking James' hand firmly. "Hello, James. It's fine if you prefer to speak English."
James' eyes lit up. "Oh, that would be fantastic, Mr. Renkonan. I appreciate you accommodating me. This will make our conversation much smoother."
Zaboru leaned back in his chair, intrigued. "So, James, what business do you have with me and ZAGE?"
James' grin widened as he leaned forward. "I'll be direct with you, Renkonan-san—I want to bring ZEPS to the U.S. market. My company, Emerald Wings, has the means to make it happen."
Zaboru's mind raced. He had just started considering ways to expand ZAGE to the United States and Europe, and now, here was an American distributor seeking him out. Was this just a convenient coincidence, or was it another effect of his reincarnated person perk guiding him toward success?
"I see. That's quite the proposal," Zaboru mused, eyeing James carefully. "But before we go any further, can you tell me more about your company? Do you have any documentation I can review?"
James nodded, expecting the question. He reached into his briefcase and handed Zaboru a thick folder. "Of course. I've prepared a detailed company profile for you. Take a look."
Zaboru flipped through the documents, scanning them at an impressive speed.
Company Profile: Emerald Wings
Founded: November 23, 1981Founders: Ryan Miller (CEO), James Yoel (Head of Product Acquisition - Japan)Core Business: Importing and distributing high-quality Japanese products to the U.S. marketTrack Record: Successfully introduced Japanese electronic appliances such as advanced rice cookers and microwaves, as well as niche consumer goods, to the American market.Market Reputation: Reliable and highly regarded in the industry for efficient logistics and strong retail partnerships.
Zaboru raised an eyebrow, impressed. "Interesting. Your company has a solid history. But tell me, James, how serious are you about bringing ZEPS to the U.S.?"
James' expression turned serious. "As serious as I can be, Renkonan-san. I see ZEPS as an unpolished gem—an opportunity waiting to be seized. I'm willing to negotiate until we find terms that are beneficial for both of us."
Zaboru nodded, appreciating the enthusiasm. "Alright, let's talk logistics. If I agree to work with you, how long will it take to get ZEPS ready for the U.S. market?"
James grinned confidently. "Three months. My company will handle everything—distribution, marketing, and retail partnerships. We'll arrange for ZEPS and its games to be transferred to the U.S., but we'll need you to localize your games into English so they can be enjoyed by a global audience. Of course we also consult with you regarding all of that."
Zaboru blinked, mildly surprised. He had expected it to take at least six months, but Emerald Wings seemed to be fully committed.
"Three months, huh? That's sooner than I expected," he admitted. "Alright, James, you've got my attention. But I need to discuss this with my department heads before making a final decision. Give me until next Tuesday, January 7. Will that be a problem?"
James' eyes brightened with excitement. "Not at all, Renkonan-san! I'll be in Japan until Sunday next week, so I have time to wait. I look forward to hearing from you."
The two men stood and shook hands firmly, sealing their preliminary discussion. James bid farewell, leaving Zaboru to his thoughts.
As soon as James left, Zaboru leaned back in his chair, tapping his fingers on his desk. This was a major opportunity. Expanding into the U.S. market would solidify ZAGE's global presence, but it also meant navigating new challenges. Would they need a local subsidiary? Should they establish an American headquarters? And what about securing the legal and financial framework to support such a massive expansion?
"I need a strategy meeting," he murmured to himself.
Without wasting time, he called Yumi. "Hey, Yumi-san. Can you arrange a meeting with the all department heads for Monday morning? We have something big to discuss."
"Of course, Boss," Yumi replied. "What's this about?"
Zaboru chuckled. "Let's just say… ZAGE might be going global sooner than expected."
To be continued...
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