1887


Founder Sadajiro Shimada becomes independent and opens Shimadasada Store at Shiidera-cho, Tennoji-ku, Osaka.

1890 

Sadajiro modifies a shell button making machine to make buttons out of buffalo horn; designs a machine to drill four holes simultaneously.
The store moves first to Watayamachi and then to Takeyamachi, Minami-ku, Osaka. 

1914

The store moves to Tanimachi, Higashi-ku. Ceases production of buttons and concentrates efforts on wholesaling.

1930

Sadajiro retires and is succeeded by Moriyuki Shimada.
A 6-day work week is introduced, an innovation in the industry at this time.

1939

The Osaka Button Wholesalers Union is formed.
Moriyuki becomes the chief director.

1940

 Store closes temporarily during World War II. 

1947

 

Store commences business after completion of a residence-store at 2-chome, Tanimachi. 

1949

 

Tsunehiro Shimada resumes business by opening the Sadabishi Store. 

1953

 

Company name changes to Shimada Button Co., Ltd. with capital of one million yen. 

1958


 Tokyo Branch opens at Matsueda-cho, Kanda, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo. 

1960

 
Kansai YKK Fastener Co., Ltd. is established. 

1963

 

Gifu Branch opens.Hirakata Business Office opens.

1966


Exports of sewing materials to Korea begin.

1967

 

Shimada Sangyo Co., Ltd. is established.

1968

 

Head Office building at Funakoshi-cho, Higashi-ku,Osaka, is completed.
Shimada Button Co., Ltd. merges with Kansai YKK Fastener Co., Ltd. and is renamed Shimada Shoji Co., Ltd.

1978

 

Construction of Tanimachi Business Office in 3-chome, Tanimachi, Higashi-ku, Osaka, is completed.

1982

 

An agent contract in Korea is solidified.

1985


First merchandise exhibitions are held in Osaka and Tokyo.
Participates in the accessories exhibition held in Beijing, China.
Kojima Branch opens.

1986


 Tsunehiro Shimada becomes Chairman, and Yukio Simada President.
Tokyo Branch is renamed Tokyo Head Office.