Yakult Europe has been the orchestra’s main sponsor since 1993. The cooperation began when the company opened its factory and offices in Almere. The first bottle of Yakult rolled off the production line in March 1994.
Yakult, main sponsor of the Netherlands Philharmonic & Netherlands Chamber Orchestra
Yakult is a probiotic milk beverage which was invented in Japan over eighty years ago and is now enjoyed by over 35 million people worldwide. Netherlands Philharmonic & Netherland Chamber Orchestra was delighted to establish its close relationship with Yakult under the motto, ‘A healthy mind in a healthy body’.
A valuable, long-term partnership for a healthy body and mind
Research shows that both gut bacteria and music have a positive influence on the functioning of our gut-brain axis. Therefore, it is not surprising that two organizations joined forces, and a long-term collaboration was born from this idea. In recent years, much attention has been paid to the connection between the gut and the brain.
Professor Bruno Pot, expert in microbiology and Yakult Science Director, explains: “The gut and brain need to be in perfect balance, just like a well-orchestrated symphony. In fact, the condition of our gut and brain affect our immune system, our mental well-being and even our mood. Keeping our gut flora healthy can be done in various ways, such as by consuming the right nutrients but also by listening to music.
The Yakult Hall
The main space in the NedPhO Koepel, where the orchestra rehearses and presents the Koepel Concerts, is known as the Yakult Zaal. The name was previously given to the main hall in the Beurs van Berlage, where NedPhO|NKO was based until 2012.