Yonex Co., Ltd. (ヨネックス株式会社 Yonekkusu Kabushiki-gaisha) is a Japanese manufacturer of sporting equipment for badminton,golf and tennis, producing racquets, clubs, shoes, shuttlecocks, and other equipment for those sports.
In 1946, just after the end of World War II, YONEX is established using a single one horsepower motor. After refining the technique of wood manufacturing, YONEX starts to manufacture badminton racquets in 1957. In 1969, YONEX embarks on tennis racquets made with aluminum, and then in 1982, YONEX starts to produce golf clubs made with raw carbon materials. Today, YONEX's business also encompasses the snowboard and walking shoe industries. It has not been an easy ride during the company's 60 year history. YONEX has learned that “the toughest situation makes the greatest chance.” This spirit will carry YONEX through all the challenges it takes to make the next 100 years successful.
Minoru Yoneyama founds Yoneyama Company, Ltd., a producer of wooden floats for fishing nets. His wood-crafting business thrives until modern advancements - namely plastic floats - force the company out of the float business. At this time, frustrated by being pushed aside by advanced technology, Yoneyama vows never again to be left behind technologically. Thus, he begins a commitment that eventually leads to innovations in the world of golf, tennis, and badminton. Relying on strengths in wood crafting, the Yoneyama Company evolves into manufacturing badminton racquets in 1957 under other brand names.
