200 articles
Footmark Corporation conducted a survey on cooling items, highlighting dissatisfaction with current products and the growing demand for heat relief. With 'duration' being the top priority for consumers, the 'Hiyashi-Toku' series is positioned to meet this crucial market need.
Shosuhkabu.com Co., Ltd. announced that Chairman Yutaka Yamanaka has sent an open letter to Cosmo Co., Ltd. and Wacoal Holdings Corp., demanding improvements in capital efficiency and long-term corporate value. The letter proposes selling off low-margin businesses, liquidating real estate assets, and focusing investment on the grid-scale battery storage sector.
KPMG has published its latest report surveying over 2,500 technology leaders across 27 countries on investment and maturity in the 'Intelligence Age.' While AI usage is widespread, the report reveals a significant ROI gap, with only 24% of organizations achieving significant returns.
IDEATECH has released a free guide summarizing the realities of Survey PR for BtoB companies. Approximately 80% of firms feel the limits of internal operation, and the guide reveals that 'hypothesis design' before creating questions is crucial for success. It proposes an 'Asset-Type' management approach to fully utilize press releases across media, AI search, and sales.
BEENOS Inc. released survey results on anime goods purchase intentions from 554 overseas 'Buyee' users. 87.0% have used cross-border EC, with over half spending more than 100,000 JPY in total. While figures remain the top favorite, there is a clear demand for 'subtle designs' in fashion items suitable for daily use.
A research group including Kobe Gakuin University has discovered a new function where specific capillary vessels in the skin prioritize the promotion of hair follicle regeneration. These vessels interact with dermal papilla cells through the chemokine CCL2, playing a crucial role in tissue regeneration. The study revealed that this interaction degrades with aging and androgen exposure, suggesting it is a cause of hair loss and offering potential for new alopecia treatments.
COOD Inc. has released a report on the paradigm shift in digital marketing caused by AI 'Answer Engines.' By 2026, 60% of Google searches have become 'zero-click,' particularly impacting travel, dining, and professional services. The report identifies a new 'Multi-verification Loop' where consumers use AI for rapid discovery while relying on official sites for trust verification.
Nikkei BP announced 'AICAS', a new consumer purchasing behavior model adapted for the generative AI era. Replacing AISAS, it posits that purchasing starts with an 'Ask' to AI, followed by a 'Confirm' phase.
Media Radar, operated by I-s Inc., analyzed Q1 2026 search keyword rankings, revealing a growing interest in 'reviews', real-world touchpoints, and AI optimization keywords like 'LLMO' within the advertising industry.
Mynavi's latest survey on 2027 graduates reveals that AI usage in job hunting has spiked to 82.7%, up 18.3pts YoY. Beyond practical tasks like essay proofreading and interview prep, about 30% of students use AI to alleviate anxiety about their own decision-making, indicating AI's growing influence on career choices and emotional support.
Tokihana, Inc. surveyed 328 individuals married for less than three years regarding 'marriage blues.' The survey revealed that 58.9% of men and 81.2% of women experienced such anxiety. It highlighted distinct differences: men are primarily concerned about financial issues and loss of personal time, while women are more worried about the impact on their careers and their future with their partner.
Channel Corporation has released an industry report covering the latest trends in customer support and generative AI application, analyzing the true challenges faced by Japanese firms.
United BM Wealth Limited disclosed the performance of its US portfolio using RL360°'s RSP for April 2026, achieving a monthly return of 5.29%, and explained its strategic market approach.
A research group including Niigata University of Health and Welfare has demonstrated that game-based training using the specialized 'Occlu Tab' tablet improves vision in children with binocular amblyopia. Published on May 19, 2026, in the international journal 'Clinical Ophthalmology,' this study presents a new option for making therapy enjoyable, addressing the challenges of traditional, difficult-to-sustain amblyopia treatments.
Toratani Co., Ltd. has initiated the 6th phase of its 'Night Oxygen Flow Project – Phase 2,' analyzing the causal link between shallow breathing during sleep and the risks of stroke and silent atrial fibrillation.
DroR Inc. announced the publication of a paper lead-authored by CEO Makoto Yamanaka in 'Frontiers in Psychology.' The paper introduces Clinical Organizational Science (COS), which views organizational transformation as 'increasing the probability of attractor transitions' based on complexity science, connecting Stacey's complexity thinking with principled probabilism.
OfficeBusters has released its 'Pre-owned Office Furniture Index' for April 2026. While vacancy rates in Tokyo's city center are falling and rents are rising, companies are choosing to optimize their existing offices rather than relocate, driving steady demand for desks and soundproof booths.
Mitsubishi Electric has been awarded the highest 'A' score in the 2025 Supplier Engagement Rating conducted by the international NGO CDP. This is their sixth consecutive year and ninth time overall receiving this honor.
A research group including Specially Appointed Associate Professor Ryo Nakagawa and Associate Professor Jun Kato at the Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine has demonstrated using real-world data from approximately 50,000 individuals that AI-assisted endoscopy significantly increases gastric cancer detection rates and improves biopsy positive predictive values. The findings were published in the international journal Digestive Endoscopy on May 1, 2026.
Fujicco Co., Ltd., in joint research with the University of Shiga Prefecture, announced that working adults exhibit significantly lower nutritional adequacy scores compared to non-working adults. The study, involving 3,520 adults aged 20-64, indicates that working individuals tend to consume fewer side dishes, suggesting the importance of supporting side dish intake for maintaining a balanced diet. The results were presented at the 80th Annual Meeting of the Japan Society of Nutrition and Food Science (May 15-17, 2026).
A large-scale survey of 22,000 people across 22 countries by NordVPN has found that Japan ranks last in all data privacy metrics. With an average score of 53%, the findings highlight a 'system-dependent' privacy mindset where users rely on institutions rather than proactive personal action.
Proofpoint, a global leader in cybersecurity, announced it has secured the top market share in shipment value for 'System Audit Logging Tools' in the manufacturing, distribution, and communications sectors in Japan for fiscal 2024, according to a survey by Deloitte Tohmatsu MIC Research Institute.
A research group from Notre Dame Seishin University and Tokushima University has discovered a giant structure and a 100-meter diameter perimeter wall dating back to 3300 BC at the Kültepe site in Turkey. The findings suggest that urban formation in human history may have pluralistic origins centered around trade, rather than being limited to agricultural societies like Mesopotamia.
OKI, Lightera, and Keio University have successfully demonstrated bidirectional transmission of broadband wavelength-multiplexed signals (1.26μm–1.58μm) over a single Hollow Core Fiber. The technology is expected to address increasing traffic while reducing power consumption by 90%.
Asmarq has released the results of a survey of 10,000 workers regarding customer harassment. The report finds that support environments are critical, with a 59.5% resolution rate in well-supported workplaces compared to just 2.2% in workplaces without support—a 27-fold difference.
WizWe Inc. and NTT Docomo Business conducted a pilot project for 'MemoLink,' a LINE-based cognitive function support service for the elderly utilizing PHR data. The project demonstrated an 86% retention rate in healthy habits through personalized chat support based on PHR data, confirming its efficacy in dementia prevention.
Protrios conducted a survey of 594 automotive aftermarket businesses regarding material procurement. The results reveal that nearly 90% of workshops handling thinner are facing delivery delays or procurement difficulties, with over 60% expressing concerns about business continuity within three months.
A survey of 500 internet service users conducted by ALL CONNECT reveals significant payment preferences and awareness gaps regarding pocket WiFi subscriptions. While many users prefer bank transfers over credit cards, awareness of services supporting these methods is notably low.
Nine companies, including Mitsubishi Chemical, have launched a feasibility study supported by the Ministry of the Environment to build a stable supply system for high-quality recycled plastics for the automotive sector. They aim to integrate digital technology, AI-driven sorting, recycling optimization, and traceability to establish a new business model.
Save the Children reports that an average of more than four children are killed or injured every day in Lebanon during the first 25 days of the temporary ceasefire. With 22 children killed and 89 injured since April 17, the humanitarian situation in overcrowded shelters remains critical, facing health issues and education disruption.
A survey of 1,365 users aged 40-80 by LasKoi reveals 82.4% suffer from housing anxiety. Preferences for partnership are shifting, with about half favoring models like living apart together (LAT) over cohabitation.
Persol Career surveyed 1,962 workers across Japan. While over half perceive the penetration of work-life balance, only about 20% feel they have more free time. The company introduces the new concept of 'Work-Like Balance.'
The top priority in job selection was 'salary and bonus levels' at 67.8%, followed by 'location and commute time' (54.7%), 'workplace interpersonal relationships' (42.2%), and 'availability and frequency of remote work' (38.4%).
Marriott Bonvoy has released the 'Loyalty Trends Report 2026' for Asia Pacific. With 89% of travelers participating in loyalty programs, engagement is becoming more complex and mature, influenced by specific travel goals like dining and relaxation. The report highlights that a one-size-fits-all model is no longer effective, emphasizing the need for integration with daily consumption.
Agile HR Co., Ltd. and Intage Inc. released a second report on their 2026 '4th National 10,000-Employee Engagement Survey.' While AI utilization and psychological safety strongly correlate with engagement at the individual level, no correlation was found between investment levels and engagement at the industry level. The report categorizes 16 industries into clusters and highlights the critical role of management quality.
A survey by hypex Inc. shows 86.0% of young job seekers feel their interest in companies increases due to social media content. However, with the rise of AI-based verification, companies must prioritize transparency over polished marketing to attract talent.
SpiceMart has released a survey on the external payment practices of Chinese game companies. Industry leaders are increasingly adopting proprietary payment systems combined with diverse promotional strategies. The recent reduction in Apple's commission fees is expected to influence future global strategic moves.
Debut icci Daikanyama, operated by icci Co., Ltd., conducted a trend survey on couple ring making among customers who visited in April 2026. The results revealed that the core demographic shifted to those aged 26-30, showing an increasing preference for personalized options like colored gemstones and 2mm-width slim rings.
Wise Research has released a report detailing Kaohsiung's economic shift. It covers the concentration of the semiconductor industry led by TSMC, the establishment of global tech R&D centers, and the massive economic impact of mega-concerts.
The Generative AI Utilization Promotion Association announced the results for the 'Generative AI Passport Exam' held in April 2026. The number of examinees reached 9,436, with 7,487 passing, bringing the cumulative total of examinees to over 92,000.
Craif Inc., a bio-AI startup, in collaboration with Tokyo Jikei University School of Medicine and Higashiosaka City Medical Center, has developed a non-invasive testing platform that enables early detection, prognosis prediction, and recurrence monitoring of lung cancer using urinary microRNA and AI. This research, published in "npj Precision Oncology" on April 18, 2026, allows for home urine collection and is expected to be applied to widespread screening.
Qiita Corporation analyzed articles from 2024 onwards, revealing a massive shift in development trends. Articles tagged with both 'Indie Hacking' and 'AI' surged 15.5 times year-over-year in Q1 2026. This data underscores a transition in the engineering landscape from simply using AI as a coding assistant to utilizing autonomous AI agents to build entire systems.
Mynavi Corporation announced that its employee AI usage rate has reached 96.1% following a comprehensive initiative to 'democratize AI.' Proactive daily users have also risen significantly to 67.8%, driven by specialized training and the adoption of no-code tools.
ZenLuxe, a specialized luxury cross-border marketplace by ZenGroup, achieved a fourfold increase in transaction volume in its first year. The growth is fueled by a unique infrastructure that protects sellers from payment fraud and chargeback risks.
Laxus Technologies, operator of the luxury bag sharing service Laxus, analyzed user data for May 2026. The report identifies CELINE, Miu Miu, and LOEWE as the top brands, highlighting a growing 'Bag Switch' habit where users frequently swap bags to match their seasonal style.
Amid a drastic decline in Japan's fish catch, Chefs for the Blue has submitted a policy proposal defining the fishery industry as an 'invisible economic growth engine' supporting a 7.3 trillion yen market, calling for scientific resource management and prioritized food distribution.
Hitachi City, Hitachi Ltd., Hitachi Systems, and Sawai Pharmaceutical announced the results of health verification projects conducted in FY2025 as part of their smart city initiative. Analyzing data from approximately 70,000 citizens, the project identified a high prevalence of hypertension. The use of the 'SaluDi' health app was found to improve citizens' health literacy. In FY2026, new measures including AI-driven advice and support for at-risk groups will be launched.
Analyzing global purchasing trends of Japanese anime goods based on Buyee data. 'Tamon-kun' topped the new 2026 Q1 releases, while 'Pokemon' took the annual #1 spot for 2025.
ScatterLab, operator of the AI fiction platform 'zeta', announced it ranked first in total usage time for entertainment apps (iOS and Android combined) in Japan for April 2026, surpassing major video streaming services. Cumulative users have exceeded 2 million.
Dream Planning Co., Ltd. surveyed 353 individuals on the appeal of Urbanization Control Areas for residential purchase. Top reasons were 'abundant nature and tranquility' (27.8%) and 'large, affordable land' (27.2%).
JGC Global and Taisei Corporation successfully demonstrated fabrication and construction technology for large-scale precast (PCa) members, integrating columns, beams, and slabs using construction 3D printers in Namie Town, Fukushima Prefecture. This is the first project based on the JSCE technical guidelines (July 2025). The goal is to reduce labor by 50% and costs by 15% in the future by minimizing joint work and improving safety and construction efficiency.
Rakuten Mobile ranked first in overall satisfaction in the April 2026 corporate mobile carrier survey by MMD Research. The company also topped categories for cost performance, speed of deployment, and customer support, reflecting its rapid growth to over 25,000 corporate clients.
Isea Clinic conducted a survey on skin concerns related to wearing swimwear among men and women in their 20s-40s. Back acne emerged as the top concern. The results highlight a lack of knowledge regarding proper care and a low rate of dermatological consultation, prompting the clinic to advocate for early professional treatment.
Tiger Corporation's 2026 survey reveals that over 40% of Japanese citizens delay heatstroke prevention until July, and 80% engage in counterproductive hydration habits like gulping ice-cold drinks. Tiger promotes 'Quiet Hydration' using their straw-type vacuum bottles.
IDEATECH Inc. has released a free guide titled 'Is SEO Over? AI Countermeasures Starting from Redesigning Existing Articles' to address declining web traffic caused by AI search summaries. Their survey reveals that 57.6% of SEO managers have experienced a drop in results, with 97.3% feeling the urgency to overhaul existing content to stay relevant in the AI era.
StockSun Inc. has published a comprehensive industry map of 31 leading Instagram marketing agencies in Japan. The map serves as a guide for businesses to select the best partner among various specialists, including large agencies, creative studios, and AI tool providers, to avoid common pitfalls in social media outsourcing.
Hikaku Biz, operated by One's Mind Co., Ltd., conducted a survey with 613 business professionals on male celebrities who project a calm image for crisis PR. Hiroshi Abe topped the list for his logical and sincere persona, followed by Takuya Kimura, Ryohei Suzuki, and Tamori, reflecting public demand for 'trust' in corporate communications.
Goodfellows Co., Ltd. released survey results analyzing 2025 users of its 'Tainavi' platform. The findings reveal that the key to closing deals lies not just in price, but in 'clarity of explanation' and 'speed.' While 70% of contractors valued quick responses, the primary reason for stagnation was 'lack of explanation,' outweighing concerns over high prices.
Accept International, an NPO active in conflict resolution across Africa and the Middle East, conducted a survey of 450 Youth Associated with Non-State Armed Groups (YANSAG) in 15 countries. The report reveals the complex realities of combatants that are often invisible in standard news reporting, including early recruitment and diverse motivations.
Hakuhodo, in collaboration with its global team FANFARE and Content Business Lab, conducted a comprehensive global fan survey on Japanese anime IPs in Indonesia, India, and Saudi Arabia. The survey revealed that while anime is widely accepted as entertainment for all ages in these countries, there are distinct differences in preferences and consumption behaviors, indicating significant potential for future market expansion.
Classmethod Inc. has released the '2026 Japan Corporate AI Adoption Survey,' analyzing the AI usage status of Japanese companies. Data from 462 responses reveals that AI adoption has shifted from the 'consideration' phase to 'practical implementation and governance.'
GRAND Co., Ltd. (Mitsubishi Estate Group) released a survey showing elevator signage as the most effective medium for B2B decision-makers, ranking 1st in trust (75.1%), focus, and memory among 9 media types, surpassing TV commercials.
Kaonavi, a talent management system, was selected as No. 1 in six HR-related categories and 15th in the TOP100 at 'ITreview The Best Software in Japan 2026', a prestigious annual award based on user reviews for SaaS and software highly valued by Japanese enterprises.
Majisemi Inc. has released a KPI report based on webinar results from April 2025 to March 2026. It provides primary data on applications, attendance, drop-off rates, and appointment acquisition to support corporate marketing improvements.
GOAT Inc. has released a free report analyzing the Instagram strategies of 50 food e-commerce businesses. Through an investigation of these accounts, the report systematizes successful methods for building relationships with followers and content design.
株式会社mov analyzed recent foreign language reviews of restaurants at Haneda Airport and published the 'Inbound Popular Restaurant Ranking [Haneda Airport Edition]'. 'Honolu Premia Air HANEDA' ranked first.
A survey by SKINLABO reveals that a majority of individuals seeking spot treatment prioritize the quality and natural finish of the outcome over cost.
Jinjib surveyed corporate high school recruitment managers on trends for the class of 2027. 92.5% of companies plan to maintain or expand hiring quotas, with about 60% intending to maintain or increase high school graduate hiring for field roles despite AI advancements. Meanwhile, the momentum for raising starting salaries has slowed compared to the class of 2026, indicating stable hiring enthusiasm but a cooling in compensation growth.
TENTIAL conducted a survey on summer sleep, revealing that over 60% of people still suffer from poor sleep quality despite using cooling measures, highlighting the critical need for bedding humidity management.
Takanashi Milk Products and Meiji University have published joint research results on concepts and package designs aimed at fulfilling consumer desire for ranch-fresh milk in yogurt products.
Concur has released the 'Reiwa Business Travel Guidebook' to address challenges in travel management. Citing survey results where 76% find allowances insufficient, it advocates for policy updates and AI integration.
Agoda has released analysis of accommodation search data for the 2026 summer global football event. Interest in destinations like Mexico City has surged by 240%, indicating a growing demand for experience-based travel centered around sports.
A survey of 1,000 monitors by Nabitt Inc. reveals the background behind professional baseball's record-breaking attendance despite declining television coverage. The enhancement of experiential value through the "ballparkization" of stadiums is successfully attracting new fan demographics.
Magellan Medical has released the Hokkaido edition of its dashboard analyzing medical mall market trends. Through an analysis of 131 malls in the region, the tool visualizes the heavy concentration in Sapporo, the prevalence of mental health clinic clusters, and the market dominance of major pharmacy chains.
Dstyle Holdings announced the results of a joint study with Fujita Health University, showing that combining functional undergarments for posture correction with pelvic floor muscle exercises may improve female lower urinary tract symptoms.
A survey by JinaCoin, operated by jaybe Inc., reveals that over 40% of crypto investors who have realized profits have deferred profit-taking due to the high tax burden, with the trend being more pronounced among those with larger portfolios.
ValueCommerce surveyed marketing leaders on promotion strategies in the AI era. While nearly 80% acknowledge GenAI's impact, only 20% have a clear strategy, highlighting gaps in talent and measurement.
IFA Leading, an independent financial advisory firm, announced that its assets under advice exceeded 100 billion yen as of April 2026, roughly three years and ten months after its inception. The company credits its growth—reaching 1,300 clients—to its internal expertise and a goal-based advisory model.
Leverages Inc., operator of the AI HR platform 'NALYSYS,' surveyed 328 students (classes of 2027-2029) regarding 'AI interviews.' Results show that approximately 80% of students fear the homogenization of document screening due to the rise of generative AI. Meanwhile, about one in three students have a positive impression of AI interviews, indicating an expectation for objective evaluations.
Komatsu Wall has achieved the highest 'A' score in the 2025 CDP Supplier Engagement Assessment (SEA). The recognition highlights the company's commitment to decarbonizing its supply chain, accurate emission management, and ESG procurement. The company intends to leverage this rating to enhance its competitiveness and lead industry-wide decarbonization.
Kanko Student Uniform surveyed 1,414 parents regarding their children's health and appearance. Results show high self-image concern, especially among high school girls.
Ladybird Co., Ltd. surveyed 50 hair removal salon owners, revealing that 96% consider reviews essential for customer decision-making. Customer experience, particularly service and counseling, was identified as the key driver for positive reviews.
Combeez Inc. verified a method for maintaining interest in its event '140-Character Work Literature Grand Prix' by releasing submissions in stages. This design kept interest alive after the event concluded, leading to a 28% increase in monthly brand-name search volume.
Oishi Kenko presented results from a pilot study of its personalized health support app at the 69th Annual Meeting of the Japan Diabetes Society, demonstrating significant weight loss effectiveness without human intervention.
Tsuno Food Industrial has conducted an absorption comparison test for its proprietary plant-based magnesium, 'Rice Magnesium,' derived from rice bran. The results revealed that compared to mineral-based materials, it is absorbed more gradually and maintains sustained blood concentration levels.
Uravation Inc. announced that their AI media site uravation.com reached 580,000 monthly search impressions for its AI coding-related articles.
mov Inc. published an analysis report of 59 Comfort Hotel locations based on recent review data. The average rating is 4.15, revealing that 'breakfast' is a core point of appreciation.
Ecovacs Japan conducted a survey on floor cleaning during the rainy season, revealing that approximately 60% of robot vacuum users are concerned about hygiene regarding damp mopping. The findings highlight high expectations for automated hot-water mop washing and drying features, with strong purchase intent among busy households, including dual-income and families with children.
Onward Kashiyama conducted a survey of 418 men and women aged 20-70 across Japan regarding seasonal wardrobe changes. The results revealed that 'circular' methods (resale, donation, etc.) for disposing of clothes accounted for 56.4%, surpassing 'disposal'. The survey also highlighted strong fashion purchase motivation heading into early summer and concentrated demand for summer items prompted by climate factors.
Porters released a survey on profit margins involving 157 talent business professionals. The study found that productivity improvement is key for recruitment, while price pass-through is vital for staffing.
GFS Education has announced that the cumulative number of viewers for its free trial videos at 'GFS,' an online financial education school, reached 1.5 million in May 2026. The growth is attributed to a surge in working generations seeking financial education following the implementation of the new NISA system.
Conciertech's 'Jobuddy Factory' has achieved dual top rankings for job volume and placement rate in the manufacturing sector according to a third-party survey. The platform leverages high-income listings, housing support, and personalized counseling to maximize employment success.
BBT Graduate School, operated by Aoba-BBT, released survey results for its Spring 2026 graduates. The data shows a 97.2% practical utility rate for learning and 94.4% satisfaction with remote education, highlighting the program's high ROI for corporate talent investment. Over 90% of respondents are decision-makers in their 30s-50s.
Can-ly Inc. has released a free report summarizing the actual behavior of consumers re-searching information after receiving AI search results, based on a survey of 1,000 users.
Kirin Holdings has been recognized as a 'Supplier Engagement Leader' by the CDP for the eighth consecutive year and also achieved an 'A List' rating for water security in fiscal 2025.
IBM released its 2026 consumer study, highlighting that generative AI is influencing early-stage purchasing decisions and that retailers must integrate AI to remain competitive.
BEENOS Inc. conducted a survey of 554 international users of its cross-border EC service 'Buyee'. Findings show 98% like anime, with 30% watching daily. Key drivers are storytelling and characters. 51.3% started via TV, and nearly 80% engage in merchandise collection.
Haluos Co., Ltd. has submitted its securities report for the 68th term, covering the period from March 1, 2025, to February 28, 2026.
Musbi, operated by Wave Dash Co., Ltd., announced the used smartphone and tablet trading volume ranking for April 2026. The iPhone SE (3rd Gen) ranked 1st overall, with iPhones accounting for 66% of the total trading volume.
Dai Nippon Printing Co., Ltd. (DNP) has been awarded the top 'A' rating in the CDP 'Supplier Engagement Rating' for the seventh consecutive year, recognizing its efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions across its entire supply chain and mitigating climate change risks.
A survey of 312 professionals by Account Agent Inc. reveals that 84% of CPAs are considering job changes, with a strong preference for moving to general business corporations. 80% of career changers successfully increased their salary.
A survey conducted by Account Agent Inc. revealed that an overwhelming majority of tax accountants are considering changing jobs. While the primary motive is dissatisfaction with salary, industry-specific factors like firm leadership succession also play a role. While small to medium firms remain the preferred destination, there is a strong desire to transition into high-level specialized roles such as M&A and business succession.
IC Clinic's survey of 300 brides reveals that 87% regret their skin preparation timing, with 6 months being the ideal start point. Last-minute treatments within one month of the wedding resulted in a 43% trouble rate, highlighting the need for early medical-grade care.
Tsunagu Workstyle Research Institute released its March 2026 labor market data report. The effective job opening ratio was 1.18x (-0.01pt MoM), and the unemployment rate was 2.7% (+0.1pt MoM). New job openings decreased by 2.6% YoY, marking 11 consecutive months of decline.
Daitec surveyed 68 housing and construction professionals regarding AI usage, revealing an 85% adoption rate, but only 13% have implemented it organization-wide. This highlights an 'individual-first, organizational-lag' gap. The company plans to support organizational adoption by integrating AI into their existing SaaS ecosystem for secure, field-ready usage.
DearOne has released a free report comparing the official apps of five major hotel chains, including APA Hotels and Sotetsu Hotels, from a UX perspective. Four experts provided a multi-perspective analysis to offer UI/UX improvement insights for digital transformation in the hospitality industry.
mov Inc. released the 'Inbound Popular Hotel & Ryokan Ranking' for Tochigi Prefecture based on Google Maps review data. Fairfield by Marriott Tochigi Nikko secured the top spot, with Nikko area facilities dominating the top 10, underscoring the area's massive appeal to international travelers.
United Arrows Ltd. has been selected for the top 'A List' in the 2025 Supplier Engagement Rating by CDP, an international non-profit environmental disclosure organization. This marks the second consecutive year of selection, recognizing the company's collaboration with suppliers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions across its supply chain under its 'SARROWS' sustainability initiative.
Foods Lab and Hotels Lab, recruitment services operated by Cuorega, have been ranked No. 1 as the 'Job Services Supported by Workers' in their respective industries according to a survey by the Japan Marketing Research Organization. Furthermore, 'Foods Lab' achieved No. 1 in three categories for F&B-specialized recruitment sites.
Saikinso announced that its cumulative samples for the 'Mykinso' gut microbiome testing service reached 250,000 as of April 2026. Since commercializing the service in 2015, the company has built one of Japan's largest datasets, which it will continue to leverage to realize a 'zero-order prevention society.'
A 2026 survey of 228 workers across Shikoku by Oceans Co., Ltd. reveals that regular Generative AI usage doubled from 21.2% to 39.0%. ChatGPT remains the most used tool, while Gemini tripled in usage. However, the survey also highlights a surge in security concerns and a lag in corporate policy development.
Kirin Beer conducted a survey revealing that sugar-free chu-hi has become a go-to choice for home drinking, driven by post-Golden Week frugality and the need for home relaxation.
Aishitoto has been certified as an 'Excellent Corporation for Shokuiku (Food Education) Practice 2026' by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries. Their 27-year tradition of providing free healthy lunches and their 'Nagaya (row house) management' philosophy have led to a 0% obesity rate and a 100% maternity return rate.
SBI Securities announced that its assets under custody surpassed 70 trillion yen as of the end of April 2026. This milestone was reached just five months after hitting the 60 trillion yen mark in November 2025. The growth is attributed to the 'Zero Revolution' fee-free initiative, points-based alliance programs, and the expansion of services like the 'SBI Securities Plus' asset management app. The company remains committed to its customer-centric philosophy, aiming to further enhance digital channels and expand both retail and wholesale operations.
Speee, Inc. analyzed over 200,000 records from its "Tsunagaru Online Assessment" system, finding that national used house prices rose 18.6% in two years, while regional disparities highlight a growing market polarization.
A survey by SKINLABO revealed that the main barriers to seeking wart treatment are fear of pain (54.0%), costs (45.7%), and scarring (26.0%). Medical experts emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and consultation to prevent self-treatment complications.
A survey of 89 construction site personnel reveals that nearly 80% feel burdened by debris and waste management. The impact on productivity and safety is significant, highlighting a strong demand for onsite external collection services.
An analysis of 150,000 custom home inquiries by Town Life Research Institute reveals that nearly 80% of seekers start by looking for land. The average budget is 50.2 million yen, with strong interest from the younger generation.
Sanwa Holdings Corporation has been selected as a 'Supplier Engagement Leader' in the 2025 CDP Supplier Engagement Rating (SEA) for the first time.
NTT TechnoCross Corporation announced that its user activity monitoring software, 'iDoperation SC,' has achieved a 78.1% market share in the 2024 fiscal year system audit trail tool market according to a survey by Deloitte Tohmatsu MIC Research Institute, marking its 10th consecutive year at the top spot since fiscal 2015.
IDEATECH has supported the survey planning, design, and execution for the 'Category Branding White Paper 2026', published by EXIDEA. Based on a large-scale survey of 3,200 respondents across 16 BtoB categories, the white paper analyzes the decision-making structure of 'first recall, selection candidates, and final selection'.
In a survey conducted by the Japan Banana Importers Association, bananas were overwhelmingly ranked as the top recommended snack for combating brain fatigue.
Think Nature has developed a new metric, 'Information Convergence,' to evaluate the reliability of marine biodiversity data. By analyzing over 35 million data points to quantify data stability, the company scientifically supports corporate decision-making for TNFD reporting and ESG investments.
Panasonic conducted a survey on sweat and body hair care for summer among 800 men aged 20-50. The survey reveals that while the heat is driving a casualization of fashion, about 60% of men hesitate to wear desired summer clothes due to concerns about body hair, highlighting growing interest in grooming as a heat-management strategy.
AllToday surveyed 251 restaurant operators. While proprietary apps are now considered more important than external media for 2026 and beyond, operational challenges remain the primary barrier to adoption.
A survey by Kreo Co., Ltd. revealed that approximately 90% of HR professionals experience a 'value gap' with current job seekers. With 89.6% of companies reviewing their recruitment activities, there is a rapid shift towards optimizing communication from the candidate's perspective through revamped messaging, young employee involvement, and SNS usage.
TWOSTONE&Sons surveyed 108 developers who use AI tools. Nearly 90% view AI-driven workflow changes positively, citing significant time savings in testing and coding. However, new responsibilities such as prompt engineering and AI output review are emerging, shifting requirements toward mastering AI orchestration.
M&A Royal Advisory Co., Ltd. surveyed 760 business owners interested in business succession regarding the FY2026 tax reform and M&A after-tax proceeds. While over 70% of executives are aware of the tax reform, there are challenges in grasping specific impacts and seeking early consultations, leading to a cautious stance on reconsidering M&A execution timing.
Baby Calendar surveyed baby name rankings for those born in April 2026, highlighting the massive trend of 'Sakura names' reflecting the arrival of spring.
H.U. Group Holdings has been selected as a 'Supplier Engagement Leader,' the highest rating in the 2025 Supplier Engagement Rating (SEA) conducted by CDP. This marks the third time the company has been selected, following its recognition in 2024, acknowledging its effective collaboration with suppliers on climate change issues. The company intends to continue strengthening its partnerships with stakeholders to contribute to a sustainable society.
Findy Inc. surveyed 226 automotive industry professionals involved in new business development, finding that nearly 90% face challenges in utilizing primary information. Significant cognitive gaps in knowledge sharing between managerial tiers are identified as a major bottleneck for decision-making.
BlueBank surveyed business owners, finding that 61.8% have real estate needs. Among those not investing, the primary barrier is a lack of information for decision-making, not a lack of interest, with a strong preference for stable cash flow over speculative gains.
ANDEVER surveyed 100 mobile gamers using AI interviews, revealing that 'daily habits' rather than 'enthusiasm' are key to retention.
Fuller Inc. has released the 'Age-Specific App Usage Trend Report 2026: 20s Edition,' analyzing smartphone usage patterns among those in their 20s based on data from its app market analysis service, 'App Ape.'
Happy Mail, a dating matching app operated by IBEC, conducted a survey among 100 adult women who identify as shy. The results indicate that 'shyness' is the most common trait, and shy women tend to show subtle signs of interest and prefer honest, straightforward approaches over games.
A survey of the housing industry conducted by Biz Creation in January 2026 reveals that company websites have emerged as the most effective lead generation channel, identified by 48.5% of respondents.
A survey by KEEN Inc. reveals that approximately 80% of people aged 10-60 belong to a 'Kaiwai' community, which has become a foundation for their consumption behavior.
Panasonic Homes Co., Ltd. and Shibaura Institute of Technology have jointly verified the thermal environment and air conditioning performance of residential homes under climate conditions projected for 60 years in the future, using one of Japan's largest artificial climate chambers.
Iromono Inc.'s Naco-do Research Institute released its 2026 survey on marriage hunting. It reports that one in four marriage hunters feels they have reached their limit, and self-understanding scores are directly linked to continuation rates.
Ixias Inc. conducted a survey on 'Store Searching and Review Posting' targeting 300 men and women in their 20s-50s residing in the Tokyo metropolitan area. The results reveal that Google Maps has evolved from a simple location-finding tool into a crucial information source that assists in pre-visit comparison and in-store menu decision-making. With 60.3% of users referencing reviews when searching on Google Maps and about 40% utilizing them during in-store ordering, the importance of reviews continues to grow.
A survey by RoomClip Inc. reveals that 81.3% of respondents feel pressure about their taste when choosing gifts. There is growing demand for 1cm-unit custom furniture gifts to solve size compatibility issues.
Archetype Co., Ltd. released the 'Agriculture Entry and Diversification Strategy Fact-Finding Report 2026,' analyzing 55 companies entering the agriculture sector from other industries. It highlights a 'profit map' with up to 5x margin differences and introduces a 'Connection Point x Layer Compatibility' framework to structurally predict entry success or failure.
Transaction Media Networks (TMN), a provider of electronic payment services, announced that its annual gross merchandise value (GMV) for cashless payments exceeded a record 5.5 trillion yen in 2025. With over 1.21 million connected payment terminals, the company will now focus on supporting retailer profitability through its 'Information Processing Business' by utilizing payment data.
A survey by PCA Corp reveals that approximately 70% of invoices in the wholesale, manufacturing, and construction sectors are still handled via analog methods. While process revision remains a major hurdle, there is strong demand for AI integration in inventory management and payment collection.
Onward Kashiyama surveyed 429 people aged 20-70 across Japan regarding their fashion consumption habits. Despite inflation, 60.9% have maintained or increased fashion spending, highlighting a trend of "selective consumption" where consumers prioritize quality and brand loyalty over low prices.
A survey of luxury watch sellers by JUNIOR Inc. reveals high demand for same-day payments and significant friction in administrative tasks like identity verification, highlighting the need for better customer experience design.
SUTEKi Inc., a provider of clinic patient acquisition support, conducted a survey on mobile loading speeds for 300 clinic websites nationwide. The results reveal that only 10.2% meet Google's "Good" standard, highlighting a significant need for performance improvements.
HAKU Inc. has released performance data for its corporate PC disposal and data destruction services from September 2025 to March 2026, following the end of Windows 10 support. The number of corporate clients increased by 48% year-on-year, with demand peaking around the support termination date.
CoWorker Inc., an AI security solution developer and provider, has published the 'Cybersecurity White Paper 2026.5,' analyzing the sophistication of cyberattacks and the latest trends in defense in response to AI evolution. The paper highlights the rapid increase in AI-powered attacks, internal risks posed by AI tools, and the urgent need for new AI-driven defense models.
Wise Consulting Group has published the May 2026 first-week issue of its 'Wise Machinery Industry Journal,' featuring the impact of NVIDIA's CPO switch mass production on Taiwanese suppliers, the development of high-end demand by Taiwanese machine tool manufacturers utilizing AI, the growth of KoJem International in semiconductor and low-earth orbit satellite businesses, and the trends in Taiwan's machine tool exports and imports for Q1 2026.
AI investment service "ROBOPRO" provided by FOLIO, an SBI Group company, has secured the top position in the 2026 Oricon Customer Satisfaction® Survey for "Robo-advisors." Its unique feature of AI predicting market ups and downs and dynamically adjusting investment allocations was highly praised, contributing to its parent company FOLIO Holdings surpassing 1 trillion yen in total assets under management.
A survey targeting 53 executives in the housing and construction industry reveals that while individual AI use is as high as 90%, organizational adoption remains at a mere 10%. The biggest challenge faced by executives is not technology, but the 'judgment barrier' of 'not knowing where to start.'
iKala, a company that develops the AI-driven influencer marketing platform "Kolr," today announced its latest industry research report, "2026 AI Marketing Trends Report." This report analyzes how rapidly evolving AI is transforming brand awareness, market entry, and growth strategies. Concurrently, iKala also announced the launch of "Chroma," a new solution for managing and optimizing brand perception on AI platforms.
According to an INFORICH survey, about 74% of travelers feel anxious about carrying mobile batteries on planes ahead of a strict ban on in-flight charging starting April 24, 2026. With 40% unsure of their battery capacity, the need for rental services like CHARGESPOT is surging.
MOSH announced its fitness sector surpassed 5 billion yen in total transaction volume. Launching the 4th installment of the 'TORCHISM' project, it highlights the 'Nomination Economy' with 15 top fitness creators.
X Mile Co., Ltd. conducted a survey of 500 students planning to enter the workforce, revealing that approximately 80% consider blue-collar jobs as a career option. This indicates a shift in career perspectives in the AI era, with students prioritizing jobs less susceptible to AI replacement.
eiicon Corporation, in collaboration with XSprout, has released 'CVC Evolution 2026,' a dataset detailing the reality of CVC activities in large Japanese enterprises based on 117 responses. The findings suggest that organizational infrastructure, such as specialized talent and evaluation systems, is essential for CVC success.
LASSIC's Telework/Remote Work Research Institute surveyed 1,005 remote-experienced workers on salary trade-offs. 38.0% would accept a salary cut for a full-remote job. Full-remote workers are 18 times more likely to accept a 20%+ pay cut compared to office-based workers.
Life Design, a welfare venture based in Ginowan City, Okinawa, was ranked 2nd in the Kyushu/Okinawa area in the 2026 'Great Place to Work' regional ranking. The company is promoting organizational development to tackle structural issues in the welfare industry.
i-goods, a provider of commercial service robots, announced the 2025 performance of its 'RACLEBO' series in conjunction with 'Zero Waste Day' on May 30th. Total installations reached 947 units, with an annual cleaning area of approximately 17 sq km, equivalent to 365 Tokyo Domes.
Minshu, a Port Group company, has released its employer popularity ranking for 2027 graduates based on a survey of 2,437 students. Itochu Corporation topped the list for the second consecutive year, with notable growth from the entertainment and IT sectors. Students are increasingly prioritizing corporate culture.
Neo Marketing announced results of its 'Survey on Seasonal Changes and Mental/Physical Health' conducted in April 2026. Among 974 adults aged 20-69 across Japan, approximately 66% experienced discomfort during seasonal transitions, with 'economic concerns' being the top cause. While there is a strong inclination toward self-care, there is a gap in understanding regarding 'foods with functional claims.'
Jimoty, Inc. announced its waste reduction performance for the 'Jimoty Spot' reuse network from January to April 2026. Reuse volume reached approximately 2,200 tons, a 2.5-fold increase compared to the previous year. The network has expanded to 39 locations across 35 municipalities, promoting the development of a circular economy.
A survey of 511 patients by 'Patient-Perspective Clinic' reveals that over 40% of telemedicine users opt for home medication delivery. Time savings and peace of mind are key motivators, positioning this service as an essential tool for maximizing telemedicine convenience.
Queue Inc. conducted a large-scale survey on the 'Query Fan-Out' (QFO) behavior of generative AI. Analyzing 35,482 prompts, the study revealed that AI automatically generates an average of 4.23 sub-queries, with a maximum of 33, for a single question. ChatGPT executes approximately 1.6 times more searches than Gemini, highlighting fundamental differences in QFO behavior between AI engines.
APOSTRO Inc. has released the "APOSTRO White Paper 2026," based on an independent survey of 4,000 people across Japan. The report analyzes patient experience in medical facilities, revealing strong dissatisfaction with wait times and billing, alongside a high demand for cashless payments. It is available for free as a reference for medical DX advancement.
DIGITALIO conducted a survey on accommodation booking habits in April 2026. With OTA usage at approximately 70%, the survey reveals that immediate incentives such as instant point grants and digital gifts are essential for increasing direct booking ratios.
GOOD PLACE Co., Ltd. (formerly Cosmos More) has published 'Susmore' vol.18, summarizing its FY2024 sustainability efforts. The report discloses key achievements, including a 20% reduction in Tokyo HQ Scope 2 emissions and a 92.7% 'Eco Test' certification rate among employees.
A survey of 724 blue-collar workers by Leverages Inc. reveals that about 40% believe they can continue working past age 60. While over half of those in their 50s wish to stay with their current employers, they express concerns regarding physical and health decline, highlighting the need for success stories of veteran workers and flexible working systems.
A survey of 15,000 people by Le Lien Co., Ltd. reveals that while legal professionals remain the primary consultants for end-of-life planning, over 5% in all age groups now consider Generative AI. Data also shows a strong correlation between planning and higher life satisfaction.
Ichigo Endo, a junior at Musashino University's Faculty of Data Science, published a research paper in the prestigious journal 'IEEE Access'. Analyzing over 12,000 fundus images, the study reveals the limitations of adding anatomical information to AI glaucoma diagnostics and emphasizes the necessity of evaluating generalization performance across diverse medical environments.
Sharefull Inc. conducted a survey on regional revitalization and U-turn trends among 14,722 users. Findings show that approximately 49% of students living away from their hometowns wish to return for work, and 59% are interested in applying for regional revitalization-related 'spot work.' Spot work is emerging as an effective means of creating a 'relational population' and a new bridge connecting youth to rural areas.
A survey by Treasure Promote reveals that young investors in their 20s are highly proactive, with 33.9% utilizing seminars and about 60% spending over 100,000 yen on learning. This proactive 'upfront investment' style contrasts sharply with the self-taught approach of older generations.
Kao Corporation has released survey findings on eco-bag hygiene. With 33% of users failing to clean their bags, increasing the risk of bacterial growth, Kao is promoting proper care methods.
Manavis Cosmetics conducted a survey of 1,004 women in their 30s to 50s regarding sunscreen use. While 80% prioritize UV protection, over 60% do not understand SPF values, and nearly 70% fail to re-apply during the day. Consumers also reported significant dissatisfaction with 'white cast' and 'skin dryness.'
Dexerials Corporation has achieved the highest 'A' rating in the CDP 2025 'Supplier Engagement Assessment' (SEA) and has been named a 'Supplier Engagement Leader' for the first time. The company was recognized for its effective collaboration with suppliers to address climate change issues.
'Hojokin Flash', a service providing AI search and application support for subsidies and grants across Japan, analyzed 172 support programs opened for application between May 17 and May 23, 2026. The study suggests options for simultaneously advancing equipment upgrades and human resources acquisition by utilizing programs that cover not only equipment costs but also labor and recruitment expenses.
Biologging Solutions, Inc., the Natural Parks Foundation Kamikochi Branch, and Shinshu University have scientifically proven, for the first time, that Japanese deer winter at altitudes over 1,600m in Kamikochi using the 'LoggLaw G2C' GPS tracking technology.
Chrono24, the leading luxury watch marketplace, released its April ChronoPulse data. While the overall index saw a slight decrease, the market was marked by a surge in demand for the discontinued Rolex 'Pepsi' and strong performances from Tag Heuer and Omega, highlighting growing divergence between brands.
A joint research team from Daiichi Sankyo Healthcare, Hirosaki University, and the University of Tokyo Institute of Medical Science has identified specific blood factors associated with headache susceptibility: nervonic acid and active vitamin D (25(OH)D3), using health big data analysis. The findings were presented at the 67th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society of Neurology on May 21, 2026. These factors could potentially serve as biomarkers for future headache prediction and management.
SBI Ikiki Short-Term Insurance released its latest survey on end-of-life planning involving 1,012 participants aged 50+. Results show a gap between recognition of necessity (80%) and action (33%), along with a clear shift towards family funerals and diverse burial methods.
Expedia Group has released its 'Unpack ’26 Summer' travel trend report. The report highlights three major trends for the upcoming season: the global revival of domestic travel, a surge in North American demand due to a major soccer event, and the growing preference for 'quiet travel' to avoid crowds. In Japan, searches for Tokyo, Hakone, and Shiga have spiked, while interest in Dallas has soared by over 6,600% due to the international tournament.
Loandeal, Inc. announced that its 'Rental Transfer' program, which sends corporate employees to startups, has reached a cumulative total of 400 participants. With 81 companies adopting the program and a 70% retention rate, it has become a strategic tool for leadership development under the rising importance of human capital management.
NPO Kids Flea Market conducted an 'Awareness Survey on New School Term, Money, and Belongings' in April 2026. Findings reveal that approximately 75% of parents feel an increased financial burden due to rising prices, and about 75% of families discussed 'money rules' with their children following the start of the new school term.
AICX Association has released a collection of 16 AI agent implementation patterns derived from 36 cases of leading companies. The guide will be distributed for free to participants of the "AI Agent Day 2026 Summer" event in July.
mov announced the 'Inbound Popular Hotel/Ryokan Ranking [Hiroshima Edition].' Based on Google Maps review data, Hilton Hiroshima topped the list.
Latest report from TikTok Shop analytics service Kalodata. Japan market GMV for the week of May 11 recovered to 985 million JPY, an increase of 14.72% week-on-week.
Macromill analyzed deli market trends using QPR™ consumer purchase history data, revealing a 15% growth in the market over seven years. Spending among those in their late 70s showed a significant increase. The 'cooking retirement' concept championed by commentator Keiko Higuchi is spreading among seniors, driving demand for deli products amidst lifestyle changes and health consciousness.
Akamai Technologies announced that it has been recognized as a Customers' Choice in the API Protection category of the 2026 Gartner Peer Insights 'Voice of the Customer' report. Achieving a 93% user recommendation rate, Akamai was the sole vendor recognized in this report. The comprehensive capabilities and ease of integration of Akamai API Security were highly praised by enterprise clients in banking, telecommunications, energy, and insurance.
Yushi Daiko Pro Co., Ltd. released a survey of 342 CEOs regarding corporate account opening. While 30% of megabank users found physical visit requirements burdensome, only 3% of online bank users felt the same, revealing a significant DX gap. Furthermore, 16.4% have been rejected for accounts, often without any explanation.
Mitsubishi UFJ Trust and Banking has published a joint research report with Meiji University and Seijo University on engagement trends of institutional investors and activists. Using data from 'Governance Research 2025,' the report clarifies differences in target companies and improvement requests among investor types.
Market research giant Ipsos released a report analyzing the impact of the US-Iran conflict on the APAC economy, consumer sentiment, and brand perception. The study reveals a sharp drop in consumer confidence, the lowest since the pandemic, alongside a structural shift from US brand dominance to rising influence of Chinese and regional Asian brands.
mov Inc., operator of Honichi Lab and Kukomi Com, released an inbound-focused restaurant ranking for Gransta at Tokyo Station. 'Tsukishima Monja Tamatoya Tokyo Station' took the top spot.
WizWe, Naha City, and NTT West announced results for their 'Dental Health Habituation Support Project' in Naha. Using psychological accompaniment via LINE, approx. 70% of participants established a habit of brushing their children's teeth 5+ times a week. The child dental visit rate also rose from 18% to 45%. The support proved especially effective for parents of 1- and 3-year-olds, periods considered difficult for child-rearing.
AnyReach conducted a survey on e-gift usage among 1,003 individuals in their 40s and 50s. Approximately 36% expressed willingness to use them, citing ease of operation and thoughtfulness as drivers for growing demand in birthday and daily gratitude gifts.
DroR Inc. has published a new theoretical framework, Clinical Organizational Science (COS), in an international journal. The framework redefines psychological safety as a 'structural condition' rather than a 'cultural outcome,' integrating it as an enabling condition for structural interventions based on complex systems science.
A survey by Surista Inc. reveals that three years after ChatGPT's release, 48.5% of Japanese office workers never use AI for work, while only 38.2% do. 55.6% of AI users report saving over an hour of work time per week, indicating a widening productivity gap and the advent of a 'divided era' between AI users and non-users.
GaiaX and CREAVE jointly released the 'Short-form Drama Market Trend Research Report'. The survey revealed that short-form dramas have over 90% recognition, with TikTok being the top viewing platform at 42.4%. Approximately 90% of viewers continue watching due to 'curiosity about the next development,' highlighting the importance of storytelling.
A survey by Custom Life Medical revealed that 83% of people regret medical hair removal. The top reason for regret was 'difficulty booking appointments' (37%), surpassing concerns about higher costs and unsatisfactory results. Many chose clinics based solely on price or location, indicating a lack of prior research as a key factor in their dissatisfaction.
A survey by SHIFT AI reveals that over half (56.3%) of Japanese company employees do not use generative AI in their work. Challenges include the risk of 'Shadow AI' due to undeveloped internal rules and a widening skill gap. While some experience efficiency gains, security concerns and 'AI fatigue' are also evident.