International Business Advisory
We read the market, design the strategy,
build partnerships, and execute the business.
We compress time and risk in global expansion
and lower the barriers to entering the Japanese market.
About Us
Practical expertise in international business
Top Notch Inc. is an advisory firm specializing in international business development and brand strategy. With extensive experience in supporting European brands entering Japan, assisting Japanese companies in overseas expansion, and building brands in Asian markets, we provide practical and strategic business support.
Leveraging hands-on experience and international networks, we help companies expand their opportunities beyond borders.
Services
What We Offer
Market Research
In-depth analysis of target markets across Asia and Europe to identify opportunities and mitigate risks.
Learn more →Brand Strategy
Strategic brand positioning and development tailored for international markets, drawing on decades of luxury and consumer brand experience.
Learn more →Partner Development
Execution-driven partner development based on real-world experience — beyond introductions to building real, sustainable partnerships.
Learn more →Business Development
Execution-driven business development that goes beyond strategy — driving actual sales, negotiation, and market validation.
Learn more →
Founder
Osamu Babasaki
Founder & CEO ／ International Business & Brand Advisor
A practical advisor bridging Europe and Asia across diplomacy, brand, and trade. With hands-on experience across diplomacy, public institutions, private enterprise, and the brand business, he provides international business support spanning the European and Asian markets.
- Served at the JGSDF Intelligence School in language education and Japan-U.S. joint training
- Seconded to MOFA, posted as Consul to the Consulate General of Japan in West Berlin for 4 years
- Trade Director and General Manager at Japan exclusive distributors of European luxury brands (Herend, Moser)
- Led overseas business at a trading company, developing new ventures with Toray, Teijin, and Dutch partners
- Took a company public on the TSE Mothers market within 3 years as IPO Department Head (Executive Managing Director)
- International lead at Yumi Katsura International — collections in Paris, Singapore, Bangkok; Paris boutique management
- Founded Top Notch Inc. and launched its brand business (Devon & Drew Japan)
- Invited by Thailand's Ministry of Commerce to deliver a brand strategy lecture in Bangkok
Partners
The experts behind Top Notch
Our partners bring expertise from different industries and regions, forming tailored teams to deliver the right advisory for each engagement.
Akane Koga
Creative Partner
Paper quilling artist creating expressive, lifelike forms through flow, density, and space.
View profile →
Munenori Koyasu
Web Director
Delivering company and brand value to society through web-based branding strategy and direction.
View profile →
Chihiro Suzuki
Brand Partner (Apparel)
Founder of "Selfeliz" — a family-oriented gift brand designing family relationships and time.
View profile →
Jackie Yu
Creative Producer
Hong Kong & Tokyo-based producer creating brand value through music and advertising.
View profile →Barry
Partner
Profile coming soon
View profile →Contact
Let's discuss your next move
Whether you're exploring new markets or looking to strengthen your international brand presence, we'd love to hear from you.
o.babasaki@topnotchhq.com