History
In the early Showa era, four Japanese-style confectionery stores named "Shomeido" were established in western Shizuoka prefecture.
The four founding members were the 3rd, 5th,7th and 10th of 10 children.
The current “Fruit Shomeido shop” was opened in 1937 by the youngest child, Shigeo.
At that time, "Manju“, a traditional Japanese confectionery, was popular as a snack for agricultural workers. It was also often given as a gift.
During the Second World War, Shigeo was forced to close his store because he was drafted. But after the war, he re-opened the store. As Shomeido at that time was manufacturing and selling confectionary for the Japanese gift market, Shigeo thought it would be a good idea to add fruit to their range of gifts.
Shizuoka prefecture utilizes its temperate climate to cultivate various fruits. Not only the famous muskmelon , known as the king of fruit, but also "Mikkabi tangerines", strawberries, grapes, pears, persimmons, and more. These fruits are part of Shomeido’s seasonal offerings.
More than 60 years after the store was established, former president Katsunori Shimagami launched an internet shop specializing in premium fruit gifts in 1999.
Following its success, Shomeido became a premium fruits specialty store in 2001 and marked this with a store refurbishment.
In 2018, the shop was renovated and saw the addition of an ‘eat-in corner’ where muskmelon and fresh fruits juice are served.