Inside Asian Gaming

ANGEL management,” explains Mr Shigeta. “In addition, after the earthquake, we launched a task force and prepared a contingency plan. To date, no problems have occurred in either production or material purchasing,” he adds. “We would like to express our many thanks to everyone for the outpouring of concern and encouragement regarding the disaster. ANGEL will continue to strive to meet our customers’ expectations.” Beginnings ANGEL as a company is 60 years old. For 50 of those years, it has been making card relatedproducts. ANGEL has beenproducing not only playing cards for the general consumer but also character cards licensed from license holders. ANGEL also produces trading cards, cards illustrating sports stars such as soccer players, plus magicians’ cards and tarot cards. These products are sold in Japan or exported overseas—mainly to Asian countries. A product range specifically for the Japanese domestic market is Ukiyoe playing cards showing traditional Japanese arts. The company’s non-casino product range is so wide that there is something to appeal to every generation. And ANGEL’s products have become so famous that its brand is widely recognised by general consumers in overseas. Casino playing cards are a relatively new addition to ANGEL’s product range, but have quickly built an excellent reputation. “We believe that quality, service and security are foundations of our business,” adds Mr Shigeta. He summarises the ANGEL philosophy as follows: • Quality—ANGEL strives for zero defects in manufactured cards. • Service—ANGEL sales staff visit customers on a regular basis, to listen to Traditional art—Ukiyoe playing cards Heads up—Angel’s specialised POKER CARDS July 2011 | INSIDE ASIAN GAMING 33