DELA

DELA

Our story

The Beginning

The journey of Buffalo, the parent company of DELA Inc., began with the establishment of Melco by Makoto Maki in 1975. Initially focused on manufacturing and selling audio equipment in Nagoya, the company faced numerous challenges but persevered through innovation and dedication. Makoto Maki’s passion for audio led him to create high-quality products that gained recognition in the market. Despite the initial struggles, his commitment to excellence and innovation laid the groundwork for future success.

The Mel Shop



To overcome financial difficulties, Makoto Maki opened the Mel Shop in Nagoya’s Ame-Yoko Radio Center. This move proved pivotal, providing a steady income and laying the foundation for future success. The shop became a hub for audio enthusiasts and helped Melco establish a loyal customer base. The Mel Shop was not just a retail space but a community center where audio lovers could gather, exchange ideas, and experience the latest in audio technology. This environment fostered a culture of innovation and customer engagement that would become a hallmark of the company.

Mel Shop, Radio Center Ameyoko Building in Nagoya




The Foundation of Quality



Makoto Maki emphasized “attractive quality,” ensuring that every product met high standards. This philosophy became the cornerstone of the company’s reputation and growth. The commitment to quality attracted more customers and solidified Melco’s position in the industry. Maki’s approach to quality was holistic, encompassing not just the technical specifications of the products but also their aesthetic appeal and user experience. This comprehensive focus on quality helped Melco differentiate itself in a competitive market and build a strong brand identity.

Advertisement for the EP-10 in the audio magazine "Musen to Zikken"(Radio and Experiment) at the time.




The Hit Product



The string drive player became a major success, showcasing Melco’s ability to innovate and capture the market’s attention. This product marked a significant milestone in the company’s history, demonstrating the potential for Melco to compete with established brands. The success of the string drive player was a testament to the company’s innovative spirit and technical prowess. It also highlighted the importance of understanding and responding to market needs, a lesson that would guide Melco’s future product development efforts.

Magazine advertisements for the 3533 System.




The Company Philosophy



Initially, there was no formal company philosophy. However, through experience and customer feedback, Makoto Maki developed a customer-centric approach that guided the company’s operations. This philosophy focused on meeting customer needs and continuously improving product quality. Maki’s philosophy was rooted in the belief that the customer should be at the center of everything the company does. This customer-centric approach not only helped Melco build strong relationships with its customers but also drove continuous improvement and innovation within the company.