Letao

About Letao

LeTAO is a Japanese confectionery company established in June 1998 in Otaru, Hokkaido. The founder, Mr. Kawagoe, envisioned making Otaru a home for Western-inspired Japanese desserts. The name "LeTAO" is an acronym for "La Tour Amitié Otaru," which translates to "The Amiable Tower of Otaru," the name given to the company's first bakery opened in a majestic tower. The company originally started as a chocolate manufacturer before gaining widespread recognition for its cheesecakes.

The business operates through physical stores, department stores, cafes across Japan, and a growing e-commerce presence that serves an international market. LeTAO has expanded globally with locations in various countries, including Canada and Australia, and across Asia. The company's business model is centered on producing high-quality sweets using premium ingredients sourced from locations like Hokkaido, Italy, and Australia. A key innovation is its freezing technology, which allows for the extended storage and shipping of its products without compromising quality, facilitating its global expansion.

LeTAO's signature product is the Double Fromage cheesecake, a two-layer cake that has achieved massive popularity, with over 25 million units sold globally. The top layer is made with Hokkaido cream cheese, and the bottom layer features Italian mascarpone. Besides its famous cheesecake, the company offers a wide range of products including other cakes, chocolates like the Thé Noir, cookies, and beverages. The brand focuses on a direct-to-consumer model through its stores and online platform, engaging with customers through reviews and social media to improve products and drive sales.