A journey of resilience, relationships, and reputation that continue to define our operations today.

Spirit of Ben Line Japan: A Story of Dedication and Legacy

Ben Line’s history with Japan stretches back over 150 years, but our modern chapter in Japan is defined by the exceptional efforts of Mr. Takazo Iigaki.

Iigaki-san had been Sales and Marketing Director for Ben Line Japan and earned a legendary reputation within the company as the hardest-working cargo canvasser in the business. Tireless, well-respected, and incredibly well-connected, he leveraged deep relationships across Japanese industry to drive Ben Line’s commercial success.

During this period, Ben Line Japan was proud to represent Compagnie Maritime d’Affrètement (CMA), at the time, a small but ambitious container line from Marseille. With Iigaki-san’s efforts and the team’s dedication, we played a role in CMA’s early expansion into Asian markets, a partnership we look back on with pride.

Our story in Japan is one of resilience, relationships, and reputation, all values that continue to define our operations today.

To all our colleagues, clients, and friends in Japan — thank you for being part of this journey, and we look forward to celebrating our 200-year anniversary with you later this week.

On the photo: (From Left to Right)

Ms Kazumi Minoura, Mr Takazo Iigaki, and Mr Kuniaki Mizushima in 2003.