Sanpō Yoshi is a business principle that reminds us that true success must benefit more than just one party.
Sanpō Yoshi means 'good for three parties': the seller, the buyer, and society.
This philosophy comes from the Ōmi merchants of the Edo period, who believed that commerce should not only generate profit but also strengthen trust with customers and contribute to the well-being of the wider community. Their approach allowed them to thrive for centuries and left a lasting mark on Japanese business culture.
Applying Sanpō Yoshi today means balancing profit with ethical practices and community impact. It encourages leaders to think beyond short-term gains and build sustainable relationships with all stakeholders. We can also see this mindset in Japanese business negotiations, which often aim for win–win solutions, in contrast to some cultures where a win–lose outcome may be seen as preferable.
