200 articles
Astrum will release a 25-color set of Pentel's 'ART CRAYON' and 9 new colors including a colorless blender on June 5, 2026. The product is co-developed with painter and YouTuber Harumichi Shibasaki.
BREXA Holdings Co., Ltd. has established a new integrated office in Osaka, consolidating its group functions to the 9th floor of the OBIK Midosuji Building to maximize group synergies. Five group companies—BREXA Next Co., Ltd., BREXA Technology Co., Ltd., BREXA CrossBorder Co., Ltd., BREXA Engineering Co., Ltd., and BREXA Communications Co., Ltd.—will relocate to the office, which will operate with approximately 200 employees. Rebranded from Outsourcing Inc. in 2025, the BREXA Group is a leading human resources services provider comprising 203 domestic and overseas companies with approximately 117,000 employees.
On May 21, 2026, Tapfun Co., Ltd. launched the Japanese-style 3D horror action games 'Shadow Corridor' and 'Shadow Corridor 2: Llorona of the Rain' on its cloud gaming platform 'TapFun'. The games can be played directly from web browsers without any download required, and are offered at special prices with additional DLCs included. A 15-minute free trial is also available.
Prodelia Partners Inc., a consulting firm specializing in PMM, will co-host a free online webinar titled "How to Build a Product Organization where 'Creating and Delivering' Work in Tandem: Role Design for PdMs and PMMs Required in the Growth Phase" with Goodpatch Inc. on Thursday, June 4, 2026, from 12:00 to 13:00 via Zoom. Speakers from both companies will share practical knowledge and field support case studies to resolve misalignments in role design between Product Managers (PdMs) and Product Marketing Managers (PMMs) during growth phases, including a panel discussion.
Kawaturu Co., Ltd. announced that its new collaboration product, "Maro Shio Koji Ume," which uses Hanamaruki Co., Ltd.'s "Yeast Fermented Liquid Shio Koji," won the Gold Medal at the "11th Tsukemono Grand Prix 2026" held at Tokyo Big Sight on May 10, 2026. This next-generation pickled plum achieves a mild taste by suppressing the sharpness of acidity and saltiness through a long aging process of 21 days.
On May 14, 2026, Pro Personal Agency Co., Ltd. spoke at a seminar hosted by the Uncle Future General Research Institute, sharing insights on how to achieve successful senior recruitment. By shifting from pitching resumes to presenting senior experience as solutions to corporate management issues, the company achieved a tenfold increase in sales in its second fiscal year since its founding in 2024. The speaker highlighted "curiosity toward oneself" as a common trait among selected seniors, explaining the importance of exploring one's career as a tool to open up the future.
movus technologies Co., Ltd., a developer of mobility infrastructure in Southeast Asia, has signed a lease agreement totaling approximately 2 billion yen with a local conglomerate leasing company for its Indonesian subsidiary. Following the recently announced Series B funding of 4.26 billion yen, this agreement aims to expand the vehicle fleet to 10,000 units within the next two years, providing eco-friendly car subscription services to drivers in Indonesia as the sole Japanese company certified as a Grab official partner.
Nagaken Co., Ltd. has developed a three-story logistics warehouse (gross floor area of 10,748 sqm) in Irukade-Shinden, Komaki City, Aichi Prefecture, and completed the handover and settlement of the beneficiary rights sale on May 20, 2026. To reduce the landowners' burden of repair and maintenance, Nagaken leased the land from five landowners and constructed the building as the developer. The project adopted a trust scheme that separates ownership, management, and operation, where the building was placed under trust with Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Bank as the trustee, and the trust beneficiary rights were sold to Itochu Corporation and Itochu Urban Development. Construction was carried out by Saeki Sogo Kensetsu Co., Ltd.
Sankei Studio's Photo Studio Palette Sapporo Chuo released 'Sunshine Romance,' a new wedding visual featuring pastel yellow styling and bubble effects to present effortless, blissful wedding styles for women in their 20s.
KOBUSHI MARKETING LLC will host a free online seminar titled 'Breaking Through the Limits of a Solo President: Practical Examples of Boosting Productivity with Secretaries and Remote Workers' on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, from 22:00 to 22:30, featuring Representative Yusuke Inoue as the speaker. Over a three-year period starting in 2022, the company increased its sales from 35.34 million JPY to approximately 85 million JPY (approximately 140% growth) by outsourcing routine tasks to remote workers. The seminar will share recruitment techniques utilizing platforms like Mama Works at an hourly rate of around 1,300 JPY, and the operational know-how of managing 328 hours of monthly outsourcing for approximately 426,000 JPY. The company will also introduce its community activities centered on its craft beer brand 'KOBUSHI BEER' and its 'Community Sponsor' sales support program starting from 30,000 JPY per month.
Yokohama Iekei Ramen Yamatoya, operated by AZism Co., Ltd., will hold the 'Great Thanksgiving Festival 2026' for a total of four days: June 6–7 and June 12–13, 2026. During this period, all dine-in customers who order noodle dishes at eligible stores will receive a free ramen coupon valid until the end of July 2026.
100 Inc., a HubSpot Elite Partner, will host a free two-part online webinar series on June 9 and June 23, 2026. The series will focus on business automation and operational efficiency by integrating HubSpot with the AI coding agent "Claude Code."
The book "Leaders Whose Subordinates Grow Rapidly Are Doing 'This' on Purpose" (authored by Yuichiro Murakami), published by Forway Inc., won first place in the general and business book ranking at Kinokuniya Bookstore's Otemachi Building store. Released on March 26, 2026, the book presents a reproducible mental framework to resolve modern subordinate development and management issues, written by an author with 1on1 coaching experience covering over 50 companies and 9,000 individuals.
Sakazen Shoji Co., Ltd. announced its sponsorship of the "Hokutofuji Retirement and Ooyama Succession Sumo Exhibition and Hair-Cutting Ceremony" to be held on May 30, commemorating its 80th anniversary in 2026.
Lucy+K Co., Ltd. will host the market event "Vaani the Bazaar 2026" from May 26 to May 31, 2026, at the Ginza Novo 3F POP UP Space in Ginza as part of its creative project "atelier vaani," which connects Indian culture with Japanese sensibilities. Various brands offering textiles, accessories, spices, and chai will participate, and free talk events will also be held.
AX Inc. has entered into a capital and business alliance with Shikumi X Inc., a Notion-certified consultant company. AX will acquire shares in Shikumi X, and AX CEO Bunta Ishiwata will join the management of Shikumi X as a shareholder and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). Additionally, Shikumi X's "Shikumi X Course for NotionAI" will be provided free of charge to participants in AX's AI training program, "AX CAMP."
Yamato Zaitaku Co., Ltd., which operates an asset value co-creation business utilizing real estate and construction fields, announced that its number of rental units under management surpassed 10,000 as of April 30, 2026, reaching 10,201 units nationwide. The company maintains extremely high performance with an occupancy rate of 99.89% and a rent collection rate of 99.63% as of the end of April 2026. This is achieved by specializing in rental management without holding its own brokerage storefronts, introducing a dedicated tenant app, establishing a 24-hour call center to prevent tenant move-outs, and minimizing rent arrears risks through strict screening, rent guarantee services, and partner attorney support.
Let's Co., Ltd. has launched the 'MLB 2026 Japanese Players Highlight Collection,' featuring nine Japanese MLB players including Shohei Ohtani and Munetaka Murakami, exclusively at the Post Office Online Shop. These Japan Post exclusive designs by The Highland Mint are priced between 8,500 and 33,000 yen.
SmartDrive Co., Ltd. announced that Hironaka Takatsuna from Macnica, Inc. will speak at the mobility conference "Mobility Transformation 2026" to be held on June 30, 2026. Takatsuna will present a session titled "Autonomous Driving Deployable Today and the Future of Fleet DX: Social Implementation Model Envisioned by Navya x everfleet," discussing AI utilization in autonomous driving solutions and remote fleet management. The event will be held physically at Otemachi Mitsui Hall, and admission is free (prior registration required).
Life is Tech has fully revamped its summer camp for junior and senior high school students into the "AI Camp," which will be held at universities nationwide starting July 18, 2026. All 12 courses will utilize generative AI, and course names have been changed to role-based titles that allow students to choose based on "who they want to become."
Carbon EX assisted Metro Denki Kogyo in procuring Gifu forest-derived J-Credits to offset unavoidable emissions and realize its zero-carbon factory goal in October 2025, aligning with its local resource use.
Mediva Inc. announced that its representative Kanoko Oishi will speak at the '1st Hokkaido Community Hospital Study Group' to be held in Sapporo on July 3, 2026. This study group aims to serve as a platform for sharing challenges and practices in small and medium-sized hospitals, home care, and general medicine in Hokkaido, encouraging flat interaction among various professions. Organized by the Community & Community Hospital Association, the participation fee is 2,000 yen, with a capacity of 50 people.
The AI-Driven Development Association has opened registration for the 'AI-Driven Development Certification,' which measures practical development skills using AI tools such as Cursor, Claude Code, and GitHub Copilot. Successful candidates will receive a digital certificate with a third-party verification URL. The examination fee is 11,000 yen (including tax), and the online exam can be taken at any time. The operating company is Cyber Freaks Co., Ltd.
Hacosta Co., Ltd., an Animate Group company, will host the inaugural "acosta!" cosplay event in Seoul, South Korea, on June 27 and 28, 2026, as its second overseas expansion. Building on its success in Taiwan, where it attracted over 40,000 participants, the event introduces a Japanese-style street-walking photography format to the Korean market. It features the "acosta! Marche" exhibition market, dance stages, and photography services, alongside a special appearance by Japanese cosplayer Moe Iori on June 27.
The International Business Linkage Organization has launched the online seminar project 'RENKETSU GLOBAL VOICE' to support the overseas expansion of Japanese companies. The first seminar will be held on June 5, 2026. The guest speaker for the first session is Mayumi Tonosaki, Representative Director of Bihada Bancho Co., Ltd. Drawing on her 13 years of business experience in Taiwan, she will talk about the reality of expanding overseas and share know-how from the perspectives of both operators and consultants. Participation is free, and the seminar will be held online via Google Meet.
Ishikawa Prefecture has launched the call for applications for the 'Fiscal Year 2026 Noto Startup Attraction Local Demonstration Support Project Subsidy (Noto Star Subsidy).' This program supports startups collaborating with local businesses in the Noto region to conduct demonstrations and improve products for disaster recovery and local problem-solving. The subsidy provides up to 10 million yen annually (maximum 30 million yen over three years) with a coverage rate of up to 3/4. The application deadline is June 12, 2026, at 17:00 JST.
The "Renewable Energy-Utilizing Data Center Business" promoted by Eco Kaku Co., Ltd. (Technologies Group) in Okuma Town, Fukushima Prefecture, has been selected by the Ministry of the Environment as a "Good Practice of Renewable Energy Utilization" and was featured in the case study collection published on May 20, 2026. The container-type data center, equipped with onsite solar power generation, will self-supply a portion of its electricity, and is expected to reduce CO2 emissions by 1,219 tons annually.
Gentosha Gold Online Inc. will hold a free online webinar on May 25, 2026, starting at 17:00, focusing on management strategies for entering the nursing care market even without prior experience, based on the case study of the rehabilitation-specialized day service "Soleil Luminare." The speaker will be Hideharu Tanaka, Chairman of the Board of HLC Co., Ltd.
Y's Consulting Group has published the third-week issue of May 2026 of its specialized Taiwanese machinery industry magazine, 'Y's Machinery Industry Journal'. The issue covers the strong performance of 16 Taiwanese semiconductor-related companies driven by AI demand, trends of four Taiwanese companies focusing on plasma equipment for advanced packaging, the case of Eclat Forever Machinery entering NVIDIA's supply chain, and the movements of equipment manufacturers strengthening cybersecurity to target Chinese demand.
VURA Capital Innovation Holdings Inc. has announced the promotion and social implementation of 'Brain Capital Management (BCM),' a new management model designed to strengthen and capitalize on human empathy, creativity, and inquiry to achieve sustainable corporate value creation in the AI era. Grounded in the '3 Bs' of Belonging, Base, and Build, this model aims to cultivate 'Smart Brain' talent capable of utilizing AI autonomously to create value and accumulate organizational 'cognitive reserve.'
MEL COFFEE in Yotsubashi, Osaka, and Michelin one-star restaurant milpa will host a one-day-only pairing event on June 7, 2026. The event will offer a pairing of five types of coffee and a five-course meal under the theme "Japanese Terroir, Mexican Perspective" to create a new experience of value. Limited to 9 seats, the price is 15,000 yen.
FUGU INNOVATIONS JAPAN Co., Ltd. has launched the sale of limited-quantity (5 units) good-condition USED electric kickboards under the specified small motorized bicycle classification, model "MEISTER.F (Model: MF-EKRSA01RW-BK/SB)," on its official Rakuten Market store "Show !t" at a heavily discounted price of 44,800 yen (tax included) from the regular retail price of 79,800 yen (tax included). These vehicles were used only for in-store exhibition and test rides, and have been fully inspected and cleaned.
On May 22, 2026, Future Seeds and other Morioka groups will submit a petition to the mayor and council chair to establish subsidies for free school users and operators to support students not attending school.
The lifestyle brand "MOTON" by lalalajapan Co., Ltd. will permanently launch its previously limited-edition fragrance "PEACH GELATO" under the new name "PEACH BLOOM", alongside its first-ever limited-edition "Silky Essence Hair Milk PEACH BLOOM". The products will roll out sequentially starting May 28, 2026, at variety stores nationwide and the official MOTON online store.
BIOTECHWORKS-H2 was selected as a 'Deep Tech Pioneer' by Hello Tomorrow for the second consecutive year in 2026, recognized for its proprietary waste-to-energy technology and 'REBORN' digital traceability platform.
Informa Markets Japan and Ric Telecom host the 19th Call Center/CRM Demo & Conference 2026 in Osaka on May 27-28 at Mydome Osaka, featuring 70+ exhibitors, 300+ products, and 60+ seminars focused on AI agents and AI-human collaboration.
Ulforce One Co., Ltd. will release the e-book "Breaking Free from Unpopular Companies" on Amazon Kindle starting May 22, 2026, explaining a new era of recruitment strategy for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and venture companies. To commemorate the publication, a campaign will be held offering the book for 99 yen instead of the regular price of 980 yen until May 25. The book replaces talent acquisition with the steps of romance and matchmaking, presenting concrete approaches to attract excellent talent.
ITANDI Inc. has announced that the number of companies adopting its services has surpassed 5,000. To commemorate this milestone, the company launched a special website on May 21, 2026, featuring actor Kyoko Yoshine as the messenger.
Ageha Inc. has released a seminar report titled "GA4 Practical Steps: Identifying Non-Converting Factors to Drive CVs Despite Existing Access," held on February 19, 2026. The report details how to visualize bottlenecks by analyzing "form arrival rate" (average 10%) and "form completion rate" (average 25–30%) using GA4, outlines concrete improvements such as reducing input fields and optimizing CTA placement, and introduces methods to accelerate analysis-to-action using AI for work efficiency.
SHUEISHA Inc. announced that the one-shot manga "Little Monster" by French creator NÉO, which won the Gold Award in the Monthly Awards on the overseas manga submission platform "MANGA Plus Creators by SHUEISHA," will begin serialization on "Shonen Jump+" and other platforms starting May 21.
YORISOI Co., Ltd. has completely renewed its corporate website and service landing page (LP) along with the official release of "Soukyaku-kun", a job seeker matching support service for recruitment agencies specializing in Generation Z aiming for career changes from inexperienced backgrounds. "Soukyaku-kun" has a track record of over 500 referrals per month and over 1,000 referrals in total, contributing to improved interview setting rates and job offer acceptance rates, as well as reducing the workload of recruitment agencies by organizing the aptitudes of Generation Z before referring them.
Asahi Construction and Fuwa Drone successfully conducted a demonstration experiment for "fully automated, autonomous flight" for 3D drone surveying and point cloud generation at a construction site.
Choushimaru Co., Ltd. will hold the "Choushimaru Thanksgiving Festival" from May 23 to June 21, 2026, at "Sushi Choushimaru" and "Sushi Choushimaru Miyabi", offering special priced menus and app benefits.
Ebisu Sushi Gyoten, operated by Billion Foods Co., Ltd., is commemorating its opening on May 1, 2026, by simultaneously hosting an "Aramasa 7-Type Tasting Plan" and a "Juyondai Banko Guaranteed Pairing Course" for a limited time from May 21 to 31.
Odawara Koseki Co., Ltd. and Hiramatsu Go Law Office will co-host a free practical seminar on asbestos risk management for companies in Odawara City, Kanagawa Prefecture, on June 19, 2026.
Educational Design Co., Ltd., an AI and programming education business operator, has joined the Hirogin Holdings group through a share transfer. By collaborating with group company Hirogin Knowledge Square Co., Ltd., the company will enhance the scaling up of its programming learning material "Digitane," integrate financial education, promote regional DX, and strengthen IT talent development.
Jun Kato, President and CEO of ONODERA USER RUN Co., Ltd., delivered a keynote speech on the theme of 'Future of Global LabourMobility Partnerships' at the Tashkent International Migration Forum (TIMF) led by the UN agency IOM in Tashkent, Uzbekistan. He presented initiatives on a human resource circulation model using their proprietary one-stop scheme, 'OUR Straight Through,' sharing insights on transparency and sustainability in global labor mobility.
Uravation CEO Suguru Sato will speak at the AI Agent Management Seminar by Venture Tomonkai. Held near Shibuya on June 16, 2026, it covers integrating AI agents like Claude Code into business operations.
Takarajima-sha will release four new 'Young & Olsen' bag BOOKs on May 26, 2026. The lineup includes a collaboration color with 'sweet' magazine and Disney designs.
The "EXPO 2027 Official Store Junkudo Bookstore Kichijoji," offering official licensed products for the 2027 International Horticultural Expo (GREEN×EXPO 2027), will open on Friday, May 22, 2026. A 300-Days-to-Go commemorative campaign will also start on Saturday, May 23, where customers spending 2,027 yen or more (tax included) can win admission tickets.
Toyota Financial Services has launched the "Miyazaki Marutto 1-Day Free Pass" on the "my route" app, available from May 22 to Dec 7, 2026, for use in designated areas of Miyazaki City.
Lumission launched a partner system of its management support service "CEO's Alter Ego" for land and house investigator offices. Partners can earn up to 750,000 yen annually per referral, enhancing their business value.
Mushugen Kogyo has launched 'Mushuret-1', an individually packaged emergency portable toilet with deodorizing and antibacterial features. It aims to promote disaster stockpiling through distribution by municipalities.
Medinew, a medical marketing magazine operated by Pin-Japan Co., Ltd. (Iya-ku Jouhou Net), has released the results of its "Survey on Environmental Changes Surrounding Doctors and Their Relationships with Pharmaceutical Companies (2026 Edition)." Amid worsening financial management of medical institutions (with 35% of doctors reporting "poor" or "extremely poor" management), the survey reveals that doctors place high importance on economic aspects such as "cost-effectiveness" (64%) and "profitability" (57%) when selecting drugs. Furthermore, the active utilization of digital channels and generative AI (with 27% reporting an increase in usage) has become prominent.
Japanese fine jewelry brand KESSAKU will hold its first brand order exhibition at "The Anthology" in K11 MUSEA, Hong Kong, on May 23 and 24, 2026. In addition to showcasing its 1st and 2nd collections, the event will feature a special Hong Kong-exclusive order service for K14 Gold specifications.
TAC Co., Ltd., a provider of educational services for qualifications, will hold a free online night guidance session titled 'Start in May! Teach Me from Scratch! Civil Service!' via Zoom on Thursday, May 28, 2026, from 20:00 to 21:00. The event is targeted at students, graduates, and working professionals considering civil service exams. Popular lecturer Takahiro Yamanashi will explain civil service careers and exam systems, and take live questions from participants.
Van Cleef Co., Ltd. launched 'bonparme Repair Hair Mask' (150g) on May 15, 2026, under its hot spring water hair care brand 'bonparme' to intensively repair hair suffering from frizz and dryness due to damage. Formulated with the repairing ingredient Tos-tear, fermented ingredients, rich oils, as well as acidic spring water from Tamagawa Hot Spring and silica, the mask utilizes heat to guide hair to a glossy finish. It is available on the official online store and various e-commerce malls.
"Malulani Hawaii," a natural stone brand originating from Hawaii, will open a limited-time pop-up shop at the "10th Hawaii Fair" at JR Nagoya Takashimaya from June 11 to 17, 2026. The shop will feature the sale of exclusive bracelets and accept orders for custom-made bracelets created based on your date of birth.
tripla Co., Ltd. has added a new feature to its CRM and marketing automation tool "tripla Connect" that uses AI to automatically integrate scattered customer data from accommodations, restaurants, and events to visualize a 360-degree view of customers.
NOK Corporation will exhibit at the "Automotive Engineering Exposition 2026 YOKOHAMA," showcasing five new products that contribute to the safety enhancement and environmental compliance of electric vehicles.
Japan Management Development Association will host an investment seminar with analyst Tomio Sugimura on June 11, 2026, to discuss the Nikkei 60,000 era, 2026 growth sectors, and market correction risks.
Tokyo Prince Hotel will host the "HOT & COOL - Summer Gourmet Fair -" at five of its restaurants from June 1 to August 31, 2026. To help guests beat the expected extreme summer heat, chefs have designed special menus under the theme of "Spiciness & Heat (HOT)" and "Coolness & Chilled (COOL)," featuring dishes such as pan-fried Motobu beef, spicy keema curry, and special buffets.
Fuji Boeki Co., Ltd.'s "Storage Stool that Becomes a Table" series, launched in January 2025, has surpassed 22,000 cumulative sales in just over a year since its release. It serves three roles: storage, a stool (load capacity 80kg), and a side table. When not in use, it can be folded and stored compactly. Available in 3 sizes (Slim, Bench, Stool) and 3 colors each.
SBI Okasan Asset Management Co., Ltd. has launched official note and X accounts in May 2026 to enhance information dissemination regarding the "ROBOPRO Fund," an investment trust that utilizes AI to analyze over 40 types of market data and dynamically alter asset allocation. Through these accounts, the company will share rebalancing reports, interviews with investment managers, and other information useful for long-term asset building, aiming to eliminate information disparities in investment.
GungHo Online Entertainment, Inc. implemented the "Isgard 2nd" update for "Ragnarok Masters" on May 20, 2026. A new dungeon, "Bagot's Laboratory," and new features for the "Snow Flower Crown" were added.
Wise Holdings Co., Ltd. has commenced a collaboration with Associated Real Estate Advisors LLC, a real estate brokerage firm based in Honolulu, Hawaii, with the aim of strengthening research and sales of Hawaii real estate. Through this collaboration, they will introduce projects such as 'Muse Honolulu' (315 units in total, designed by Bohlin Cywinski Jackson), a mixed-use high-rise residence in the Ala Moana area of Honolulu scheduled for completion in 2029. In the future, they will also consider new offering methods, such as fractional ownership utilizing real estate crowdfunding.
Pathcreate Co., Ltd. will exhibit and propose the nasal wash device "Hanarila" as a year-round self-care solution that also addresses discomfort during the rainy season, at the Tokyo Joint Branch General Assembly on May 24, 2026.
Panasonic Group will exhibit at Interop Tokyo 2026 from June 10 to 12, 2026, at Makuhari Messe, showcasing network, device, and security solutions aimed at realizing non-stop operations.
The Department of Apparel Science, Faculty of Home Economics at Kyoritsu Women's University has achieved 6.17 million yen (411% achievement rate), significantly exceeding its initial target in a fundraising project to establish the "Textile Cultural Heritage Conservation and Restoration Room." Opened in May 2026 on the university campus in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, the room will serve as a hub for the conservation and restoration of valuable textile cultural assets and practical human resource development.
Izumi Co., Ltd.'s plus-size brand Glamour Princess is launching its 3rd Spring/Summer 2026 collection, featuring new "Bikyo Keeper Grand Lift" and "3/4 Cup Bra" models, available on May 21 and June 4.
Uber Eats Japan held its 6th delivery partner dialogue session in Nagoya on April 9-10, 2026, with 34 partners discussing app specs, delivery requests, and compensation.
A new business development representative from Honda Motor Co., Ltd. attended a three-month "Philosophical Innovator Training Course" provided by ShiruBe Inc. The case study illustrates how cultivating deep human understanding and mental stamina through philosophy can foster the ability to discern signs necessary for developing new businesses.
JPI (Japan Planning Institute) will hold a seminar on May 26, 2026, regarding Toshiba's key initiatives for developing innovative nuclear power plants and improving safety. Keiji Matsunaga from Toshiba will provide detailed explanations focusing on the innovative light water reactor iBR.
Photo Studio Palette will begin offering elementary school graduation hakama rental and photography services at Palette+plus Sapporo Nishi and Sapporo Higashi stores from fiscal 2026. The service provides comprehensive support, including costume rentals, pre-shoots, and family photography.
Superace Software Technology Co., Ltd. has released 'UPDF for Mac 2.5.2', a PDF editing software for Mac featuring improvements in Handoff support, page operations, and more.
USACO Corporation (Tokyo) has signed an exclusive distributor agreement with Consensus NLP, Inc. for institutional and group subscriptions to the AI-powered evidence-based research platform Consensus in Japan.
Unitomo Works completed a Bali-themed 'resort-style entertainment office' in Feb 2026 at Shinjuku Seven Building floors 1-2, featuring projection mapping, a real tuk-tuk, and cave-inspired staircases for tenant leasing.
ADTANK Inc.'s competitive benchmarking AI search diagnostic service "Ellsig" has surpassed a cumulative total of 100 supported companies. The service analyzes evaluation gaps between a company and its competitors across major generative AI platforms including ChatGPT, Gemini, and Claude, clarifying priority measures and next steps. Following this milestone, ADTANK has expanded its capacity to accept free diagnostic consultations.
Yuko Gakucho, representative director of UNLEASH Inc., which operates a professional tarot divination training school, donated 500,000 yen in support of the childcare assistance programs run by the Social Welfare Corporation Tokyo Metropolitan Social Welfare Council. The school has trained over 900 professional tarot readers to date, and many of its students are women raising children while seeking financial independence, which motivated the donation to the council's child welfare and short-term childcare support programs.
Ontake Distillery, operated by Nishi Shuzo, has won the 'Best Category Award' and 'Japan Grand Prix' at TWSC 2026 for its 'SINGLE CASK STRENGTH JAPANESE WHISKY Ontake No.18'.
INNFRA Inc. conducted a pop-up resort pilot project at the Nakagusuku Castle Ruins in Okinawa, utilizing autonomous water circulation technology. Despite the lack of traditional infrastructure, the project attracted nearly 100 times the number of applicants for the available slots. Participants reported high satisfaction, confirming the viability of high-value, off-grid tourism experiences.
The JAL Group and ispace have launched the 'ARGO PROJECT,' the world's first lunar transportation service by an airline. The project aims to preserve Earth's culture on the moon, utilizing ispace's 2028 lunar landing mission. JALUX will develop the 'Möbius Ark' transport box, with sales of payload slots starting May 27, 2026.
Jomon Kikaku LLC has pre-opened 'EARTH GARDEN' in Ishigaki, the world's first theme park where 'collected marine debris' serves as the admission fee.
Belife Co., Ltd. has launched a crowdfunding campaign for 'AURUM', a caffeine-free next-gen energy drink using Cordyceps researched at Kyushu University, targeting health-conscious consumers with a 50 million yen goal.
OSUSHI, an AI development startup, will introduce a 4-day workweek with full salary starting June 1, 2026. This strategy aims to boost productivity by having humans focus on design and quality control for four days, while AI continues tasks during the three-day break.
Hinokami Distillery's debut product, 'HINOKAMI NEW BORN #1', has won the 'Japan Grand Prix' at TWSC2026. It also secured the Best Category Award and the Highest Gold Award, marking a significant achievement in both domestic and international competitions.
istyle Inc. and KDDI Corporation will launch the SNS content "Minna de Apude-chu!" on June 1, 2026, themed around women's daily lives.
Scohia Pharma has raised 3 billion JPY through a third-party allotment of shares. The company, a spin-off from Takeda Pharmaceutical, specializes in endocrine, cardiovascular, renal, and metabolic diseases, and will use the funds to advance its clinical-stage drug development programs.
Namba Marui has announced that 'Eslite Spectrum,' a cultural hub originating from Taiwan, will open in fiscal 2027, marking its first location in the Kansai region.
According to the National Credit Card Center (NCCC), Japanese tourist spending in Taiwan has expanded, with card usage value increasing by 14.28% and transaction volume by 33.01% last year. Spending has shifted from accommodation to frequent, small-value purchases in dining and retail.
According to a survey by Meetsmore, requests for 'Field DX' services (construction, estimation, and cost management) from SMEs in the construction sector surged 199% year-on-year to 1,461. Cost management systems saw the highest growth at 300%, outpacing back-office SaaS by 2.7 times. Driven by labor shortages and wage pressures, small businesses with 1-10 employees are leading this investment trend.
Zig-Zag, Inc. has established a local subsidiary in Taiwan, 'Zig-Zag Taiwan Co., Ltd.,' and officially commenced operations. The company aims to support Japanese firms' entry into the Taiwanese market by leveraging the high demand for cross-border e-commerce among Taiwanese tourists after returning home.
Global dermocosmetic brand La Roche-Posay announces its first collaboration with the movie 'Minions & Monsters'. Starting June 5, the campaign will feature exclusive merchandise and special animations to promote the Effaclar skincare line.
Satofull, in partnership with Recruit, will launch the 'Jalan Furusato Nozei Coupon' in autumn 2026. This initiative allows donors to use tax-deductible contributions for accommodation bookings on Jalan.net, seamlessly integrating travel planning with hometown tax donations.
Morikatron Inc. has appointed Yoshio Okumura, former Executive Vice President of Drecom, as a Director effective June 1, 2026. As the entertainment industry faces a turning point due to generative AI, Morikatron aims to merge CEO Yukito Morikawa's AI R&D expertise with Okumura's business strategy experience to accelerate growth and organizational development in the entertainment AI sector.
Capital Launchers and Indobox have signed an MOU to support Japan-India cross-border business. Based at 'STATION Ai' in Nagoya, the partnership combines Takaaki Kishida's financial expertise with Daisuke Tanji's on-the-ground execution in India to provide end-to-end support for market entry and investment.
Sonomono Inc. announced that its flagship products, 'Sonomono Natto Capsules' and the 'Kona Natto' series, have received The Non-GMO Project certification, the most trusted non-GMO verification in North America. This is the first time a natto product has achieved this certification.
work with Pride will host its first 'work with Pride 2026' conference on June 30, 2026, marking its 15th anniversary. The event will feature discussions among business leaders, labor unions, and legal experts on corporate responses to potential same-sex marriage legalization. It will also include a press conference for the 'Business for Marriage Equality' campaign, which expects to reach 700 supporting companies.
GenerativeX, a Japanese FDE consulting firm, has raised approximately 650 million JPY in a Series A round led by Nissay Capital. The company specializes in end-to-end AI agent implementation and business transformation for large enterprises. The funds will be used to accelerate global expansion, particularly in the US, and to strengthen their team and M&A capabilities.
AlphaDrive has launched 'AX for Revenue FDE Service,' an AI-driven business development support service. By evolving the 'Forward Deployed Engineer (FDE)' concept popularized by Palantir into 'Forward Deployed Expert,' the company aims to embed business development expertise directly into client teams.
EventHub held 'Event Seminar Marketing Fes 2026' on May 19, 2026. The company released a trend report based on data from 423 participants, highlighting the current state and challenges of event marketing in Japan.
soramusubi has launched 'Angel Coffin,' a specialized casket for infants who have passed away due to stillbirth or neonatal death. With approximately 16,000 stillbirths occurring annually in Japan, the company aims to alleviate the burden on grieving parents by providing dignified, infant-appropriate memorial options.
With the support of the NPO WELgee, an Afghan AI engineer, Mr. P, has been hired as a full-time employee at I&D Inc. This marks the company's second hire of a refugee background individual. Mr. P holds a master's degree from Waseda University and has over 10 years of experience. I&D, which focuses on BtoB marketing and AI development, is promoting a 'continuous co-creation model' by welcoming refugee talent as growth partners.
The 1st Hokkaido Semiconductor Industry Expo will be held in November 2027 at the Sapporo Industrial Exhibition Hall. Aiming to build a robust supply chain and foster regional economic growth following Rapidus's expansion into Hokkaido, the event expects 150 exhibitors and 5,000 visitors, running alongside the Hokkaido Business EXPO.
INCLUSIVE Holdings announced that its consolidated subsidiary, Orange and Partners, will absorb George Creative Company on June 1, 2026. This restructuring aims to launch a full-scale 'Branded Placemaking' and design consulting business, strengthening revenue streams beyond advertising.
NPO Sankakusha has launched a crowdfunding campaign on READYFOR to expand its 'Sankaku-Clear' employment support program. The goal is to raise 3 million yen to train and support 10 additional youths.
ULSAPO Inc. has launched a rental management system that allows for unified management of rental operations on a single screen, completely free of charge.
fengari Co., Ltd. has launched 'FENGARI,' an organic shared cosmetic brand for humans and their dogs. Developed by a hairstylist and a veterinarian, the brand achieved 901% of its crowdfunding goal. It offers 100% naturally derived hair oil and balm, proposing a lifestyle of coexistence between humans and pets.
COEDAS has provided long-term organizational development support to Reiwa Special Steel, a 70-year-old trading company. Facing a crisis of high turnover and declining customers, the company successfully transitioned into a self-sustaining organization through dialogue-based coaching.
Defining sake made from table rice as 'Premium Table Rice Sake,' the company launched a 12-language portal to share its story and scientific background globally.
As the adult hobby market grows in Japan, metal model brand 'BLDB' is advocating for the value of model building as a form of digital detox and collaborative family activity. Emphasizing the sense of achievement and focused time gained through assembling precision metal parts, the company is proposing a new form of hobby through its upcoming Father's Day campaign.
At its shareholders' meeting, Zhen Ding-KY announced that AI is driving a structural upgrade in the PCB industry, creating significant growth opportunities. Chairman Shen Ching-fang stated that the company aims for server and optical module revenue to double by 2026, with IC substrate revenue projected to grow by over 70%.
Oisix ra daichi Inc. saw its 'EAT and SEND for Noto Peninsula' project, winner of the 'Social Products Award 2026' Grand Prize, featured as a case study in a 'Social Marketing' course at Keio University SFC. On May 25, 92 students presented proposals and infomercials aimed at sustaining long-term disaster recovery efforts.
Unicharm Corporation has been recognized as a 'Supplier Engagement Leader' by the international environmental non-profit CDP for its efforts in climate change mitigation across its supply chain. Under its long-term ESG goal, 'Kyo-sei Life Vision 2035,' the company is accelerating initiatives toward a net-zero society through GHG emission reductions, renewable energy adoption, and strengthened supplier collaboration.
Trip.com Group announced a strategic roadmap at the 'Envision 2026' conference in Shanghai, focusing on AI, partnerships, and sustainable growth. With the global tourism market reaching a record $11.6 trillion in 2025, the company introduced the '3 Ds' (Discovery, Diversity, Depth) and highlighted its commitment to AI-driven innovation and the Tourism Innovation Fund to support next-generation travel experiences.
Bridge International Group has announced the acquisition of EraX, an AI consulting firm. By integrating EraX's AI implementation capabilities with the group's sales expertise, they aim to accelerate corporate sales transformation.
Yurindo's official YouTube channel, 'Yurindo Shika Shiranai Sekai,' has received the Special Award at the AEBS Award 2026. The channel was recognized for its unique approach to content creation, focusing on the 'passions' of bookstore staff and manufacturers, and for building a community of over 530,000 subscribers.
Azumino Mineral Water Co., Ltd. announced that its Junmai Daiginjo sake 'mine,' crafted with the company's natural water, has been adopted by 150 restaurants and hotels. The brand has built its value through a direct-to-restaurant sales model, bypassing traditional wholesalers.
Speee Inc. announced that its real estate lead response service, 'Tsunagaru Apo Master,' has surpassed 30,000 total appointments. The service helps real estate agencies prevent lost opportunities by providing professional teams to handle initial lead responses and follow-ups.
Hagakure Inc., operator of the web marketing school 'Degipro,' surveyed 100 new graduates in spring 2026 regarding their career perspectives and reskilling awareness. The survey revealed that approximately 20% chose not to join a company, indicating a diversification of career paths. While 70% still see value in traditional employment, there is a strong demand for corporate training and reskilling support due to concerns about personal skill relevance.
Five parties, including JAL, have begun testing biodiesel fuel made from rice bran oil byproducts in ground vehicles at Yamagata Airport.
Proship has donated to Saga City's human resource development projects for the third consecutive year via the Corporate Hometown Tax system. With a total contribution of 20 million yen, the company views this as an investment in the future through regional co-creation.
AtoJ Co., Ltd. secured runner-up at the B Dash Camp 2026 Spring in Sapporo 'Pitch Arena'. The company offers '1nego', an ODR platform that resolves small-scale unpaid debts through conversational interfaces, transforming administrative departments into profit centers.
The third 'Chiikawa Mogumogu Honpo' store, featuring a fusion of Chiikawa and Japanese aesthetics, along with a new takeout shop, will open on Sakaimachi Street in Otaru on July 18, 2026.
Happy Cars' commercial 'Barber' has been named a finalist at the Cairns Crocodiles Awards, one of the largest creative festivals in the APAC region. Co-produced with Dentsu, the film was praised for its cinematic approach that prioritizes human connection and brand philosophy over traditional price-driven advertising.
Tu Hsin-che, Chairman of the Development Center for Biotechnology (DCB), stated on the 28th that Taiwan must build autonomous drug supply capabilities to counter global supply chain uncertainties. The DCB will focus on high-end biologics, ADC, nucleic acid drugs, and green manufacturing processes to strengthen domestic supply resilience and help build a 'Biotech Silicon Valley' in Taiwan.
Yurindo Co., Ltd. announced plans to open the first Kansai region store for the Taiwanese lifestyle brand 'Eslite Spectrum' at Namba Marui in Osaka by 2027. Leveraging its experience operating Eslite Spectrum Nihonbashi since 2019, Yurindo aims to create a new cultural hub where Taiwanese and Japanese cultures intersect.
ReGACY Innovation Group has invested in ESREE Energy, a startup selected for the 'Takehara DX' accelerator program in Takehara City, Hiroshima. ESREE Energy is developing gravel-based thermal storage technology to decarbonize industrial heat. The company will collaborate with local businesses in Takehara to accelerate the development and commercial deployment of its systems.
Todo-o-nada Inc. will host a free online seminar on June 2, 2026, to discuss essential PR strategies in the AI era, focusing on Google's latest updates.
Daiwa House Group's Cosmos Initia announced that its in-house health keeper refresh room will mark its 25th anniversary in June 2026. The service, provided by professional health keepers, has become deeply integrated into the company, with approximately 80% of employees utilizing it, contributing significantly to organizational engagement.
Pegatron Chairman Jason Chang stated that a P/E ratio of 20-30x for Taiwan stocks is not overheated. He emphasized that Taiwan is at the center of the AI trend, with current development at less than 30%, signaling significant future growth.
Torishima attended the inauguration of the massive pumping station for Egypt's 'New Delta' agricultural project. The company supplied 49 large pumps and established a local subsidiary to ensure long-term maintenance.
JB BLOCK, a subsidiary of Jelly Beans Group, has entered into a business alliance with South Korea's MY-ONE Co., Ltd. to expand their metaverse platform business. The partnership aims to maximize corporate value and create new customer experiences through experiential marketing, cross-border events, healthcare DX, and regional revitalization initiatives.
CJ FOODS JAPAN will launch the 'Micho-wari Rescue Team' campaign for its vinegar drink brand 'Micho' on June 1st. Actor Shinnosuke Mitsushima will serve as the 'Micho Island Captain,' offering personalized drink suggestions via a hotline. The company also designated July 3rd as 'Micho Day' and will host social media recipe reveals and giveaway campaigns.
Pigeon Corporation and Morioka City signed a partnership agreement on May 27, 2026, to promote a child-centered city and ensure the supply of goods during disasters. The collaboration aims to create a safe environment for families by leveraging Pigeon's expertise in childcare and disaster preparedness.
PROGRIT Inc. launched 'PROGRIT Learning Studio' on May 18, 2026, a learning management system for corporate English training. Designed to address the growing need for visualizing training ROI in human capital management, the system leverages experience from supporting 374 companies to provide real-time tracking and centralized data management for employee learning progress.
The Toyama Prefecture Q-reation / NAKASAI project, supported by Potage Inc., won the 'Technology Innovation Award' at the Peatix Community Awards 2026. The project was recognized for its mechanism of connecting Toyama with the Tokyo metropolitan area and providing end-to-end support from pitch to commercialization.
PALTAC and Daio Paper will participate in commercial operations using T2's autonomous trucks starting in May 2026.
A survey by Teikoku Databank reveals that only 16.8% of companies are familiar with the revised Logistics Efficiency Act, while nearly 70% are unaware of its contents. Awareness is low among shippers compared to logistics providers. Strengthening collaboration is seen as the top priority, highlighting a gap in awareness and the need for practical improvements.
Cosmed Pharmaceutical has developed the beauty industry's first 'fully hollow microneedle' and will begin offering OEM/ODM services in July 2026. By applying medical device technology, the system injects ingredients directly through 74 hollow needles, significantly improving the penetration of high and low molecular weight components into the stratum corneum.
Apollo Inc. has acquired 100% of the shares of Emisys Inc., making it a wholly-owned subsidiary. By integrating Apollo's strategic consulting expertise with Emisys's system implementation and operational capabilities, the group aims to provide end-to-end support for AI adoption, from strategy to deployment and long-term operation.
MicroSilicon approved its 114th fiscal year financial statements, elected a new director, and passed a resolution to apply for a general listing at the AGM on May 28, 115.
On May 27, 2026, 43 major Japanese consumer goods manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers established the 'Consumer Goods Supply Chain Council.' The council aims to drive digital standardization and data integration to fundamentally reform commercial, logistics, and information flows.
Nagamasa Co., Ltd. was honored by the Regent of Karangasem, Bali, for its contributions to Japanese language education and economic exchange. The company proposed a 'talent circulation model' where youth trained in Japan return to solve local infrastructure issues, such as water problems. Both parties agreed to collaborate on this vision for sustainable development.
JAL and ANA have released their second joint report on SAF, outlining the challenges and the need for a 'Japan-model' to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions in aviation by 2050.
Idemitsu Kosan and Morisora Biorefinery have signed a memorandum of understanding to build a supply chain for domestically produced ATJ-SAF using wood-based bioethanol. They will jointly study the feasibility of a system that covers everything from raw material development to SAF utilization within Japan, using second-generation bioethanol (E2G) derived from non-edible woody biomass.
JR West and Sagawa Express have signed a partnership agreement to build a co-creation ecosystem for mobility and logistics. By the 2030s, they aim to integrate their systems for seamless service. Starting June 24, 2026, they will launch a pilot for 'Same-day Delivery WEST,' a luggage delivery service for inbound tourists between Kyoto/Osaka and Hiroshima/Hakata.
Booost Inc. has submitted a formal response to the UK government's consultation on secondary legislation for the UK Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). The company proposed practical solutions for Japanese manufacturers, focusing on clarifying calculation boundaries for downstream steel products and reducing the burden of third-party verification.
enechain and Xpansiv have integrated their platforms to enable real-time trading of global environmental assets for Japanese companies.
Stella Seed Co., Ltd. will release limited-edition collaboration items between its hair care brand '8 THE THALASSO' and 'Dragon Quest' starting July 1, 2026. Featuring a Heal Slime-inspired pump design, the products use a 'Thalasso Heal Formula' to provide deep hydration.
Rohto Pharmaceutical will release the 'Rohto Z! King Slime Eye Drops' on June 10, 2026, to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Dragon Quest series. Following previous Slime-shaped bottles, this edition features a 16mL King Slime design with interactive packaging, aiming to make eye care more engaging for digital-age users.
Toridoll Holdings is strengthening its regional revitalization support for Marugame City, Kagawa Prefecture. In April 2026, the company facilitated an international exchange between local children and students from Lujiang Elementary School in New Taipei City, Taiwan, using the 'Honnomori-go' library ship. The company continues to contribute to the community through traditional festival support and charity events.
Scene Live, provider of call systems 'lisnavi' and 'OSORA', has partnered with LiB, an HR service provider, to offer a one-stop solution for call center and inside sales operations, covering everything from system implementation to staffing.
Ferrari has officially launched its first all-electric vehicle, 'Luce,' featuring a top speed of over 310 km/h and a range exceeding 530 km. It is the heaviest Ferrari ever and the first five-seater.
China's population aged 20-29 has decreased by approximately 80 million over the past decade. As population decline accelerates, young people are concentrating in cities with strong industrial competitiveness like Shenzhen, Hangzhou, and Chengdu, leading to regional divergence. Experts suggest that urban competition is shifting from 'grabbing' talent to 'retaining' it, with industrial strength, housing costs, public services, and quality of life becoming the key determinants.
President Lai Ching-te announced a 100 billion NTD plan to accelerate the upgrade and transformation of SMEs and traditional industries, aiming to assist 1 million SMEs in achieving smart transformation by 2040.
Special campaign details for Wa-Shin-Mura's 5th anniversary.
Special campaign details for Wa-Shin-Mura's 5th anniversary.
Bentley Motors has unveiled the 2026 Mulliner Personalised Commissioning Guide. With over 70% of customers opting for bespoke features, the brand has expanded its customization options, including new gradient paint finishes and laser-etched veneers.
On February 3, 2026, Audemars Piguet unveiled six new 'Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph' models featuring summer-inspired colors. The 37mm models debut the new Calibre 6401, while the 42mm models feature racing-inspired dashboard aesthetics.
Suntory will launch '-196 <Ruby Grapefruit>' nationwide as a permanent product starting July 28, 2026.
Suntory will launch 'Kaku Highball Can <Yuudoki>' nationwide on August 4, 2026, targeting the evening meal occasion.
The KOCCA Tokyo Business Center will host the 'KOCCA CKL TOKYO PAVILION' at Content Tokyo 2026, held from June 17-19, 2026. Eight leading Korean content firms in webtoons, gaming, video, music, and theater will participate to seek business matching and collaboration opportunities with Japanese companies. Pre-registration is required for attendance and business meetings.
Wagokoro Co., Ltd. has announced that it will open a new store for its Japanese pattern umbrella brand, 'Hokusai Graphic,' in the Enoshima area of Fujisawa City, Kanagawa Prefecture, in early July 2026. This marks the company's first entry into the Shonan/Enoshima area, aiming to provide a brand experience that blends traditional Japanese beauty with modern lifestyles for tourists and international visitors.
UNCHI Inc. will relaunch its 'Picasso Cafe' in Dogenzaka, Shibuya, as 'PICASSO RAMEN' on June 6, 2026. The new space will feature authentic soy sauce ramen produced by the popular Osaka-based shop 'Jinrui Mina Menrui,' served in custom Picasso-inspired mugs, blending ramen, music, and alcohol.
Sana Co., Ltd. will release the "Nioi Toletta Diaper Deodorizer Foam Type" on June 1, 2026, to reduce the burden of waste disposal in childcare and nursing care, protecting the mental well-being and dignity of users.
Kanro Co., Ltd. has joined the 'Challenge Carbon Neutral Consortium (CCNC)' hosted by The Japan Research Institute, launching the 'Minna de Gen-CO2 Project 2026' to promote decarbonization. Collaborating with 21 companies and 16 municipalities, Kanro aims to drive consumer behavioral change toward eco-friendly products through education and carbon footprint awareness.
Serendip Holdings is establishing a new company, 'Monozukuri Business Succession Holdings (JMS),' to support business succession in the SME manufacturing sector. With an initial 2 billion yen from partners like Shoko Chukin Bank, it aims to build a 10 billion yen platform.
The University of Tokyo Edge Capital Partners (UTokyo IPC) and Hakuhodo have launched 'LAUNCH ASIA' under the 'GATS' program to support deep-tech startups in Southeast Asia. Additionally, 'LAUNCH UK' has expanded its scope to include MedTech and extended its application deadline to June 30.
Pole To Win has launched 'Support × QA Engine' (Sapo-Q), a new service that integrates Customer Support (CS) and Quality Assurance (QA) to directly link user feedback to product improvements. By feeding CS logs into the QA process, the service accelerates bug prevention and UI/UX enhancements. Leveraging over 30 years of testing experience and 100+ CS projects, the company aims to maximize LTV for its clients.
Hospitality Operations Co., Ltd. will rebrand and open 'Smile Smart Inn Okinawa Churaumi' in Motobu Town, Okinawa, on July 1, 2026. Located just a 4-minute drive from the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium, the hotel features 25 rooms equipped with kitchens and laundry facilities. It offers a convenient, contactless smart check-in experience, ideal for families and groups on long-term stays.
Asiro Inc. has entered into a business partnership with Aeon Insurance Service to launch the 'Legal Peace of Mind Pack,' a legal support service for SMEs and sole proprietors, effective June 1, 2026. Based on Asiro's 'LegalBase' platform, the service leverages Aeon's customer base to provide contract management and AI legal checks, helping businesses mitigate legal risks.
Fairtrade Label Japan is launching 'Fairtrade Environment Month' from June 1 to June 30, 2026, to highlight how Fairtrade supports both human rights and environmental conservation.
Aim Factory Inc. announced that its corporate scout service, part of the 'SE-Navi' platform, has exceeded 3,000 registered candidates. By leveraging their scout agency service, multiple companies have successfully hired IT professionals in as little as one month.
A BCG survey reveals that nearly half of Japanese Gen Z and Millennials purchased used or refurbished items in the past year, indicating that resale-conscious consumption is becoming mainstream among younger generations.
Lifenet Insurance conducted a survey on the burden faced by children supporting their parents' medical and long-term care. Results show 60% use their own savings, and 20% of caregivers quit their jobs.
FIRST CVC has launched 'JAPAN CVC BASECAMP,' Japan's first innovation hub dedicated to CVCs. Located in Tokyo, it aims to accelerate open innovation through AI matching and networking for over 530 member companies.
On May 1, 2026, Ichigo opened 'THE VILLAGE SAPPORO,' a new office building near Sapporo Station. It features the first 'WeWork' location in Hokkaido. Opening events were held on May 20-21, attended by Sapporo Mayor Katsuhiro Akimoto and Yuki Saito.
Bengo4.com, Inc. announced the 'BUSINESS LAWYERS AWARD 2026' to recognize lawyers contributing to corporate and social change. Entries open on June 1, 2026, focusing on lawyers in cutting-edge fields.
GENDA GiGO Entertainment has opened its second Shanghai location, 'GiGO Shanghai Jing'an Joy City,' on June 1, 2026, within the popular Jing'an Joy City mall.
Aucnet, a circular market design company, has launched a strategic partnership with Odakyu Department Store for 'INVID,' an asset liquidation and sales support service for high-net-worth clients. By leveraging Aucnet's BtoB online auction platform, the service provides objective valuation and sales support for high-value items like jewelry and watches.
Splash Brothers Co., Ltd. opened its 8th 'Splash-n-Go' subscription car wash location in Fujioka City on June 1, 2026. With over 22,000 active members, the company is accelerating national expansion through a new management agency model, aiming for 50 locations by 2028.
On June 10, the first permanent 'Matsuya PREMIUM' store will open at Matsuya Ginza, offering premium, department-store-quality beef bowl dishes following the success of a previous pop-up event.
Okinawa Cellular Telephone Company is launching regional contribution projects to mark its 35th anniversary. The centerpiece is the 'Smartphone Mirai Scholarship,' a national first providing smartphones and three years of communication costs to high school students in child care facilities. The company is also focusing on next-generation development through anniversary branding, a collaboration with Kariyushi58, and regional problem-solving workshops.
Minna no Ginko continues its partnership with Kitakyushu City's Z-Generation Division for the 2026 fiscal year, using its 'Cheer Box' and 'Cheer Code' programs to fund business ideas from the Z-generation, aiming to foster regional revitalization.
Omiai, Inc. surveyed 6,203 married individuals aged 20-39 in Japan. While 'workplace' remains the top reason overall, 'matching apps' ranked first for those in their 20s. In Tokyo, one in three married couples met via apps, highlighting their role as a primary marriage channel.
To commemorate its 60th anniversary, Matsuya Foods will open its first permanent department store location, 'Matsuya PREMIUM,' in the basement of Matsuya Ginza on June 10, 2026. The store will feature exclusive menus using Kobe beef and Wagyu, offering a premium experience distinct from standard Matsuya outlets.
Ajinomoto Co., Inc. has signed a sponsorship agreement with the professional esports team 'REJECT' effective April 1, 2026. The company will provide nutritional support, including its frozen bento meals, to enhance player performance and promote well-being through its AminoScience® expertise.
Kyushu Electric Power and Nomura Real Estate have commenced construction on a multi-tenant refrigerated logistics facility in Tosu City, Saga Prefecture. The 3-story facility will span approximately 6,468 tsubo and is scheduled for completion in October 2027.
The Gamification Lab, operated by SEGA XD, has announced that entries for the 'Gamification Award 2026' will open on June 1, 2026. This year introduces the new 'Gameful Action Award' and an open application system. The awards ceremony will be held in winter 2026 alongside the 'Gamification Conference QUEST’26'.
Club Tourism will launch a series of special tours starting in April 2026 to commemorate the 100th year of the Showa era. The tours offer immersive experiences into Showa-era industry, infrastructure, and culture, including visits to the Panasonic factory, the Seikan Tunnel, and sites related to the legendary sumo wrestler Taiho.
17LIVE Inc. will host an audition event starting June 1, 2026, in collaboration with the culture media 'Quick Japan.' Selected streamers will have the opportunity to interview popular voice actor Konomi Kohara for the magazine and website.
E-Fran Co., Ltd. announced that the popular group Junretsu will join Dacho Club and Kintalo. in the new TV commercial for their high-value purchase brand, 'Otakaraya,' starting June 1, 2026. The campaign, themed 'Energizing Japan through High-Value Purchases,' features over 200 extras. Leveraging its proprietary AI authentication system, Otakaraya operates over 1,810 stores globally and is accelerating its expansion from Asia into Oceania.
AQ Group has launched the 'AQ Collection zero,' a limited-time special model available from June 1 to July 31, to address housing market anxieties caused by the Naphtha shock and inflation. By including solar power and battery storage as standard, the model aims to reduce lifecycle costs. Starting at 16.45 million JPY (excl. tax), it includes lifetime structural and waterproofing warranties, as well as earthquake rebuilding coverage.
en-japan has launched JICA's 'Social Impact Recruitment Project,' seeking over 20 general staff members from June 1 to June 28, 2026, to leverage private-sector expertise for international development.
Nakashibetsu Town, Hokkaido, plans to clear two unused town-owned plots in the city center in FY2026 to study their effective utilization. Leveraging its strong dairy industry and airport access, the town faces a shortage of accommodation due to industrial growth. Following a proposal call, the town received ideas for parking, multi-purpose facilities, and hotels, and aims to revitalize the region by incorporating private sector expertise.
Nara City is recruiting participants nationwide for 'Narawai,' a program where individuals tackle new business challenges with three local companies. The goal is to provide participants with experience in working and living in Nara, creating opportunities for future migration and entrepreneurship.
List Co., Ltd., a comprehensive real estate firm, will open the dance studio 'The Port by List' in Yamashita-cho, Yokohama, on July 4, 2026. In collaboration with the professional dance team 'List::X,' the studio will offer lessons for all levels, from beginners to aspiring professionals, aiming to serve as a 'third place' for community engagement.
Common Sense Co., Ltd. has announced a packaging refresh for its underwater-aged wine 'SUBRINA' 2021 vintage 'ACT5', launching on June 1, 2026. The new design features artwork by contemporary painter Ryoten Ogata, depicting the sea of Minami-Izu, and includes improvements for easier opening.
Nippon Access released a new RTD beverage, 'Hotei Foods Certified: Dry Sour for Yakitori,' on May 26, 2026, developed in collaboration with Hotei Foods to perfectly pair with their iconic canned yakitori.