Featuring Naoto Nose, Planning & Development,
and Katsuaki Honda, Plant Manager, of SUMMIT CO.,LTD

---

Even in Fast-Paced Iron Processing, Skilled Hand Finishing Makes the Difference

At SUMMIT CO.,LTD, the woks and iron frying pans that symbolize the WAHEI eNZO brand
are produced through a fully integrated process, from manufacturing to packaging.

The company is known for its exceptional speed and efficiency.

We spoke with Naoto Nose from Planning & Development and Katsuaki Honda, Plant Manager,
about the craftsmanship behind the products.

Skilled Hands and Trained Eyes Supporting Fast-Paced Production

Iron is relatively easy to work with due to its softness, but it also rusts easily. To prevent corrosion during production, the products must undergo oil treatment within a week, making both speed and quality essential in the manufacturing process.

Although machines handle much of the processing work, the final finishing depends on the sensitivity and experience of skilled craftsmen.

“New machinery and technologies help us improve efficiency, but quality is ultimately supported by the judgment and experience of our craftsmen,” says Naoto Nose from Planning & Development with a smile. “In some ways, craftsmen simply expect more precision than machines alone can provide.”

The factory is equipped with a wide variety of processing equipment, yet every product is ultimately completed through the careful inspection and skilled workmanship of experienced hands.

Sometimes Precision Alone Is Not Enough

Like paper, metal sheets also have grain directions that affect how the material behaves during processing. Because the orientation of each sheet varies, workers must constantly check the material by hand throughout production.

Welded sections also differ in angle and shape depending on the product, making it difficult for machines alone to respond with complete flexibility.

Plant Manager Katsuaki Honda explains that the company refines its manufacturing process through repeated hands-on adjustments — sometimes returning to traditional methods, and at other times experimenting with entirely new approaches.

“I joined the company at 24, and it’s been nearly 30 years now,” Honda says with a smile. “Even after all this time, I still feel there’s more to improve. I want to keep pushing myself and continue mastering the craft.”

His humble expression conveyed the pride, enjoyment, and dedication that lie at the heart of manufacturing.

Preparing the Next Generation to Carry On the Craft

The production of iron cookware involves a wide range of specialized processes, from forming and trimming to oil treatment and coating. Each step requires knowledge, precision, and hands-on experience.

At SUMMIT CO.,LTD, craftsmen are expected to learn every stage of production and move flexibly between tasks as needed. This adaptability supports the company’s fast-paced manufacturing style, but it also makes technical training more demanding.

One of the most challenging tasks is replacing the dies used in production, since the required components and setup order vary from product to product.

“Until a few years ago, only veteran craftsmen could handle this work,” says Plant Manager Katsuaki Honda. “Today, we’ve introduced visual guides throughout the factory so younger employees can learn the process as well. Passing down skills is a challenge across the entire manufacturing industry, but we want younger craftsmen to keep improving with confidence.”

As Honda shared these thoughts during the factory tour, young craftsmen in their twenties could be seen hard at work nearby.

The enzo series aims to create meaningful connections between people. Beyond connecting with those who use the products, the brand also hopes to nurture the bonds between the craftsmen who support its manufacturing every day.

Discover the WAHEI eNZO Nitrided Carbon Steel Frying Pan