There are several issues facing A0 financially. Challenges All nature-related businesses, which Maki values highly, are operating at a loss with unclear prospects: n Wild eel farming. n Strawberry cultivation. n Rice production. n Beekeeping. n Restaurant. The eel and beekeeping ventures are especially struggling. Efforts are being made to repackage honey products to appeal to a greater number of high-end clients. The eel business has been temporarily halted, as of 2024, despite significant investment in human resources. Complex international standards on eel production coupled with the high cost of Chilean eel food being prohibitively expensive, and with advancements in technology allowing for complete eel farming, the company decided to shift away from wild eels. Revenue-Generating Businesses Several of the businesses are performing better, even with some issues. n “Forest” operations still generate profit, but it has dropped significantly in recent years. Wood processing and related businesses are negatively impacted from rising prices, the drop in the housing market, and an aging population. n Entrepreneurship support programs (such as Local Venture School and TAKIBI) have been solid contracts but are projected to decrease in profitability in 2025. n Welfare services: disability care and elderly care are expanding because of the aging population and there are more opportunities for expansion. Opportunities The company has several possibilities on the horizon. n Biodiversity and local government entrepreneurship training programs n Expand corporate training services as they have been profitable. There is a question, with changing geopolitics, whether corporations will reduce educational budgets and commitments to nature-based businesses and values. n Visitor engagement designed to increase attractions and expand nature-based
experience programs for individuals, families, and the community. n Hospitality services and the addition of lodging and restaurants.
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Ten Years in the Making
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