Yokohama-based food processing conglomerate Nippon Ham has announced their decision to acquire remaining stakes of the renowned Japanese baseball team, the Nippon Ham Fighters, thereby transforming the team into a wholly-owned subsidiary. The details of the transaction, including its effective dates and financial values, are yet to be disclosed. This move pops up in a series of similar past endeavors by corporate shareholders to leverage sports in their business strategies.

In Japan, corporate ownership of sports teams is a common phenomenon, notably in NPB (Nippon Professional Baseball). By owning a team, the parent corporation can often benefit from promotional opportunities and amplified brand recognition. Moreover, dedication to a beloved national sport often highlights the company's commitment to contribute to Japanese culture.

In contrast, corporate ownership of sports teams is not as prevalent in the US or EU. In these regions, teams are generally owned by business persons or investor consortiums but rarely by a corporation. Seemingly, a difference in societal norms and sports industry structures contribute to this disparity.