Company Funeral Culture and Funeral Companies: A Case Study of Taisei Saiten

Abstract

This paper uses “sha-sō” (company funerals) to discuss features that seem characteristic of Japanese companies from the viewpoint of anthropology of business administration and in particular how formal ceremonies seem necessary for the lasting growth of the company. Company funerals are very significant for Japanese companies, in this regard, and are becoming widespread. Funeral companies have a vital role to play in the conduct of company funerals. Consequently, the study of a company funeral by a funeral company seemed a good way to investigate the characteristics of company funerals. The funeral company chosen was Taisei Saiten. At the funeral in question, the company appointed, as chairman of the funeral committee, a client who was a big figure in the local business community. Two business federations jointly represented friends of the deceased. In this way the company was reconstructing its social relationships. In addition, the company saw the funeral as a new business model and was creating a new business pattern. It was clear that the company planned to be reborn after the death of the founder.