Sometimes the most powerful marketing activities are simply carefully-constructed e-mail messages or well-timed comments to the right media contact. Or even a survey that demonstrates a client's care and commitment to the Japanese market.

TKAI first engaged in grassroots marketing in 1995 with the launch of the Do-it-Yourself Import Center (www.diyer.com), a comprehensive Japanese language information resource for consumers and businesses in Japan who are interested in learning how to purchase products and services directly from overseas companies.

The Do-it-Yourself Import Center was a hit in Japan from the start, and today is a mainstream destination for online consumers interested in international mail order and direct purchasing from foreign suppliers.

Our intent was to offer a service dedicated first and foremost to consumers, and one that provides real utility to users. This consumer-first policy won the trust (not to mention the traffic), of tens of thousands of Internet users in Japan.

We're honored with that trust. And over the years Japan's Web users have honored us with thousands of e-mail messages, survey replies, comments - even cards and letters - telling us their thoughts and opinions about the Internet, electronic commerce, online shopping, and the products and services offered by U.S. clients we represent (and many whom we don't yet serve).

The result is an unparalleled depth of understanding of Japan's Internet users - and the ability to leverage our relationship with them on behalf of clients who share our dedication to service.