Minoru Yoneyama founded Yoneyama Company, Ltd., a producer of wooden floats for fishing nets. His wood crafting business thrived until modern advancements - namely plastic floats - forced the company out of the float business. At this time, frustrated by being pushed aside by advanced technology, Yoneyama vowed never again to be left behind technologically. Thus, he began a commitment that eventually led to innovations in the world of golf, tennis, and badminton. Relying on strengths in wood crafting, the Yoneyama Company evolved into manufacturing badminton racquets in 1957 under other brand names.

The first "Yoneyama" brand badminton racquet was introduced. Two years later, Yoneyama Trading, Ltd., was established in Tokyo to distribute the racquets internationally.

The company's commitment to innovation attracted significant attention in 1968 when Yoneyama introduced the world's first aluminum badminton racquet, the #7000.

Yoneyama Company diversified into the tennis racquet industry.

The company's new "YY" logo, the blue and green color combinations, were introduced and soon were a familiar sight on badminton and tennis courts around the globe. One year later, the company and brand name was changed to Yonex.