927 received, 927 listed, 3 sources ・ Page 3 of 10
One place for news and notices from 2 countries/regions: Japan, 900 items from 2 sources; Taiwan, 27 items from 1 source.
One edition every 180 minutes: every item from every source received in the period, with the original link.
Hitachi Solutions has implemented iPaaS “Workato” at Shimizu Corporation. The platform integrates distributed data and establishes a foundation for data utilization and automation of business processes using generative AI.
Companies mentioned：清水建設株式会社、株式会社日立ソリューションズ
Yamaki has turned the “Mentsuyu Cushion,” which drew a strong response as an April Fool's promotion, into merchandise and launched a giveaway campaign on X (formerly Twitter) on April 14.
English-language Renta!, operated by a Papyrus subsidiary, began transferring users and content from “Manga Planet,” which is ending its service, on April 13, 2026.
Companies mentioned：株式会社ファンタジスタ、PAPYLESS GLOBAL, INC.
Stockmark Inc. has added its autonomous AI operations platform “SAT Agent Cockpit” to the scope of its certification under the international cloud security standard “ISO/IEC 27017.” The certification demonstrates a secure framework for enterprise use of generative AI.
Companies mentioned：BSIジャパン株式会社、アマゾンウェブサービス
Pernod Ricard Japan will hold an alcoholic beverage promotion from April 24 to May 24 to mark the 19th anniversary of 丸の内ハウス in Shin-Marunouchi Building. Pairing menus devised by each venue will be available at 12 locations in the building.
Companies mentioned：丸の内ハウス
Sightron Japan Inc. will support and exhibit at “Star Camp 2026 in Asagiri Kogen,” hosted by Mitsubishi Motors and held in Fujinomiya, Shizuoka Prefecture, from May 29 to 31, 2026. At its booth, Sightron Japan will hold a paid workshop on assembling and operating the NEWTONY reflecting telescope (5,000 yen), offer solar observation with an Hα solar telescope and stargazing sessions using telescopes and binoculars (free), and display products. This auto-camping event hosted by Mitsubishi Motors has been held since 1991 and is for Mitsubishi vehicle owners.
Aoyama Trading will launch “Wear Shift Suits” on April 14 under its “WEAR SHiFT” project for sustainable fashion, reusing polyester from collected suits. The suits use an outer fabric made from 100% recycled polyester, incorporating collected clothing, fabric scraps and recycled PET materials. The lining uses “ECO BLUE,” made from recycled plastic bottles, while the buttons are made from biomass materials. The hangtags also use recycled paper containing 10% collected clothing. Priced at 32,890 yen, including tax, the suits will be sold at all Yofuku no Aoyama stores and the official online store.
Starting April 14, note is making its manga-focused “Comic Viewer” available to all creators. Creators can publish and sell manga in a page-turning format simply by uploading their manuscripts.
Companies mentioned：公益社団法人 全国出版協会・出版科学研究所
OriginalGA technologiesが新社会人を対象に実施した調査で、1年目の6人に1人が初任給30万円以上であることが判明。約9割が投資に関心を持ち、賃上げが若者の資産形成の早期化を後押ししている。
Batons Inc., operator of the M&A and business succession support platform BATONZ, announced that 121 new M&A professionals joined the BATONZ Partner Program between January 1 and March 31, 2026. New members include Inbanker Inc., Kotohira Sogo Law Offices, and LEG Inc. Launched in March 2020, the program supports the development of M&A professionals by providing M&A business support tools, learning content, and advice from experienced experts. Batons Inc. was established in April 2018 and has capital of 100 million yen.
Summit's "Young Chicken Thigh Karaage Made with Tamari Soy Sauce" won Gold in the East Japan Supermarket Prepared Foods Division at the 17th Karaage Grand Prix®. The product sells for 238 yen per 100g (257.04 yen including tax) and ranks No. 1 in sales among Summit's prepared side dishes. The Grand Prix is organized by the Japan Karaage Association, and 13 companies won Gold in the East Japan Supermarket Prepared Foods Division.
Australian-born Mexican food brand Guzman y Gomez (GYG) will mark its 11th anniversary in Japan by giving away a total of 1,111 free burritos at 5 Tokyo locations on April 29.
Companies mentioned：株式会社トランジットメキシカンフードオペレーション
Original株式会社TOKIUMは、経費精算サービス「TOKIUM経費精算」のiOS版モバイルアプリで、AI-OCRによる証憑のデータ化機能の提供を開始しました。これにより、月末などの繁忙期でも迅速な経費申請が可能になります。この機能は、これまで約8,000名のオペレーターが手作業で行っていたデータ化をAIで自動化し、経理業務の効率化を目指します。Android版は5月中の提供を予定しています。
DENTSU SOKEN, in collaboration with Dentsu and Microsoft Japan, will launch the "HR × AI Organizational Transformation Program" on April 14, 2026, to support organizational transformation using Microsoft 365 work activity data and AI.
Companies mentioned：株式会社電通総研、株式会社電通、dentsu Japan、日本マイクロソフト株式会社
Domino's Pizza Japan will hold the "Domino's Mega Feast Festival" during the Golden Week period (April 24-May 10, 2026). It will offer "Nearly 1kg Ultra Cheese," "Nearly 1kg Fries" and "Nearly 1kg Karaage" for a limited time.
SBI Ikiiki Small-Amount and Short-Term Insurance Co., Ltd. held its 2nd policyholder roundtable on March 30, 2026. The meeting aims to use customer feedback to improve products and services, and was attended by President and Representative Director Yuji Saida. In line with the SBI Group's "customer-centric approach," the company places importance on direct dialogue with policyholders. The 1st meeting was held in June 2025, and the company plans to continue developing and improving its products and services through ongoing communication.
Tokyo Tatemono will exhibit at the "TOKYOROOMS Exhibition," opening April 18, 2026, as "bloomoi," a project from its Brillia condominium brand, and will display a prototype of an ideal room.
Companies mentioned：株式会社ソーシャルインテリア、ZA DESIGN inc.、株式会社緑演舎、キギと創造株式会社
Yoshinoya announced that its frozen beef bowl topping, launched in 1993, surpassed 500 million cumulative shipments as of the end of February 2026. A long-selling product that lets customers easily enjoy Yoshinoya's flavor at home, it has expanded its sales channels through co-ops and online retailers for more than 30 years. In 2022, the company also launched "Toku-Gyu Salacia Premium," a food for specified health uses, and a shelf-stable version of its beef bowl topping, and continues to evolve the lineup. Yoshinoya aims to continue creating products that combine quality and convenience.
OriginalIGGが開発・運営するヴァイキング戦略RPG『ヴァイキングライズ』が、2026年4月にサービス開始3周年を記念した全世界規模のセレブレーションを開催。イベントでは、IGGワールドチャンピオンシップ2026への招待（同年9月開催予定）、新テーマソング公開、プレイヤーの過去1年間の実績をまとめたパーソナライズされた「年間レポート」の提供、復帰プレイヤー支援プログラム、限定ゲーム内報酬などが含まれる。IGGは2006年設立のグローバルモバイルオンラインゲーム開発・パブリッシング企業で、香港証券取引所に上場している。
Rohto Pharmaceutical and 東京女子医科大学 have successfully developed a next-generation artificial skin model with vascular structures that reproduces cellular diversity. The model demonstrated improvements in skin barrier function and elasticity, as well as enhanced effects of vitamin C, raising expectations for accelerated development of next-generation skincare products and pharmaceuticals.
Companies mentioned：ロート製薬株式会社、東京女子医科大学
ITOKI has unveiled 3 products, including "HAKUSAN," under its new office furniture brand "NII." They were first presented at Salone del Mobile.Milano 2026 and are scheduled to go on sale in June 2026.
Companies mentioned：Industrial Facility、無印良品、Herman Miller、Mattiazzi
NatureLab Inc. will host the "SVELTY beauty Booth by NatureLab Store" at the Tokyo Great Bears' final home matches of the 2025-26 season on April 17 and 18 at Ariake Coliseum. The booth will offer samples of "SVELTY beauty Protein Smoothie" and hold a lottery for customers who purchase NatureLab products.
Blaze Inc., in partnership with CARRO JAPAN, will begin offering connected electric motorcycles equipped with a vehicle management system on April 1, 2026. The service aims to help address challenges in the logistics industry.
Companies mentioned：CARRO JAPAN株式会社、ソフトバンク株式会社、Trusty Cars Pte. Ltd.
Anker Japan has launched the "Anker Solix Alternator Charger," its first car charger, on April 14, 2026. This device efficiently charges Anker portable power stations using surplus power from a car's battery while driving, enhancing power security for car camping and emergencies.
Companies mentioned：Anker Group、Anker Japan、Amazon.co.jp、楽天市場 (Rakuten Ichiba)
Original株式会社D1-Labは、一般社団法人日本ガス協会が提供する「バーチャルガスパビリオン おばけワンダーランド」アプリの開発を担当した。このアプリは、大阪・関西万博のバーチャル会場に出展された「ガスパビリオン」の体験内容を独自アプリ化したもので、おばけが暮らす街を舞台にしたアドベンチャーゲームを通じて都市ガス業界の取り組みを伝える。iOSおよびAndroid版が2026年3月31日から2028年3月31日まで無料で配信される。
Heso Production Inc. will launch the black Myaku-Myaku "Myaku-Myaku Omamori Netsuke (for warding off misfortune)" as an official EXPO2025 licensed product. It is scheduled for release in mid-April 2026 and will be priced at 990 yen, including tax. The product will be sold at locations including the 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo Official Store at Eki Marché Shin-Osaka Station. The company plans, produces and sells original products and provides comprehensive branding for companies and organizations.
Tiffany launched its 2026 Mother’s Day campaign, “Celebrating Mothers Since 1837,” on April 14. Featuring House Ambassador Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, the campaign includes a short film themed around the bond between parents and children and love across generations. In the film, Rosie wears a Tiffany HardWear pavé diamond necklace. Founded in New York in 1837, Tiffany is a global luxury jeweler with more than 300 stores worldwide and over 14,000 employees.
King Jim will launch the “Quiet Please Light,” which detects voice volume and signals it with light, on June 5, 2026. It will help people manage their speaking volume in quiet settings such as libraries and offices, and support vocal training.
Companies mentioned：株式会社キングジム
King Jim will launch its first stationery series for inbound visitors, “Japan Design Collection,” on June 5, 2026. The lineup includes 3 products, such as the “Chopstick Ballpoint Pen.”
Companies mentioned：株式会社キングジム
Originalミズノは、名古屋市瑞穂公園陸上競技場整備等事業の特別目的会社（SPC）の構成企業として、2026年4月に開業する「パロマ瑞穂スタジアム」の管理運営を2041年3月31日まで行います。このスタジアムは世界陸上競技連盟認証、日本陸上競技連盟第1種公認の約30,000席を持つ国際大会開催可能な施設で、Jリーグ・名古屋グランパスの本拠地でもあります。競技開催日以外も3階コンコースを開放し、1周約1kmの回遊路「MIZUHO-LOOP」を市民の憩いの場として提供します。ミズノはスポーツ施設の設計・施工から運営まで幅広く手掛けており、全国で169物件を管理運営しています。
King Jim Co., Ltd. will launch the “Black Globe Heat Index Meter,” equipped with a black globe that can measure radiant heat, on June 12, 2026. Compliant with JIS standards, the product is suitable for monitoring the heat index (WBGT) at outdoor work sites and other locations, and alerts users to dangerous conditions with an alarm and flashing LED. As measures to prevent heatstroke become mandatory, the product will support heat countermeasures in workplaces and at job sites, while aiming to develop the market for heat protection products.
ORBIS will hold “Mirai Hada Atelier,” a free skincare event for high school students and their parents or guardians, in Omotesando on May 31, 2026. The event aims to encourage parent-child dialogue through skincare and convey the importance of self-care.
Companies mentioned：ポーラ・オルビスホールディングス、ポーラ文化研究所、こども家庭庁
IBM Japan announced “ALSEA,” a specification-driven development solution that will become a new standard for enterprise system development in the AI era. It will enable a development structure led by AI, with people focusing on design and oversight, improving the quality and efficiency of large-scale projects.
Companies mentioned：日本アイ・ビー・エム株式会社
Valuence Japan Inc. and Vivid Garden Inc. have partnered to introduce the reuse service “NANBOYA Mail-In Purchasing” for unwanted items to users of the farm-to-consumer e-commerce site Tabechoku. The initiative aims to connect food sustainability with the circular use of goods and make it easy to incorporate sustainable consumption into everyday life. This cross-sector partnership between farm-to-consumer e-commerce and a reuse service is rare in Japan, and its future development is attracting attention.
Advanced Media, Inc. will hold the online seminar “Eliminate Reliance on Individual Salespeople and Build a Sales Organization Where Everyone Can Sell: Practical Methods for Real-Time Sales Support Using AI Agents” on April 23, 2026. The seminar will explain operational reforms using AI agents, real-time AI assistance during sales meetings, and the automation of preparation and review tasks. Participants will also receive a free trial of “AmiVoice SalesAgent.”
Wacoal Swim Wear will launch the 2nd swimsuit collection created in collaboration with SPORTIFF and Risako Miura on April 14. The lineup includes one-piece styles that combine figure coverage with fashionable design.
Companies mentioned：株式会社スポーティフ
Seven-Eleven Japan Co., Ltd. will begin rolling out “Fried Takoyaki” (3-piece and 6-piece packs), fried in-store, at locations nationwide on April 21. Made with bonito-based broth and generously sized pieces of octopus, the product is crafted for a gooey texture and rich flavor. It is being introduced as a new, affordably priced option, ideal as an extra dish or for satisfying a small appetite.
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Space Market, Inc. has adopted the vulnerability management cloud “yamory.” This will help the company meet the high security standards required for “Spacepad,” its public facility reservation management system for local governments, while enabling a multifaceted understanding of risks across its infrastructure and establishing an organization-wide management structure. Within a few months of adoption, vulnerabilities in host operating systems and other areas were reduced to approximately 1/3, and the reporting process for management was also strengthened.
Sanyo Shokai will collaborate with MN Inter-Fashion to launch the women’s brand “HANAE MORI” starting with the Fall/Winter 2027 season. Marking 100 years since the birth of Hanae Mori, the company has appointed Satoshi Otsuki as creative director and will offer timeless value to the upper-middle market.
Companies mentioned：株式会社三陽商会、MNインターファッション株式会社
Sansan Inc. has added a new feature to its business database “Sansan” that allows users to download, in CSV format, more than 2.4 million company profiles, including companies with which they have had no previous contact. The feature will make it more efficient to create sales lists for new business development.
Cake.jp is holding a pop-up store at JR Kyoto Isetan featuring original cookie tins created in collaboration with popular picture books. The cookies contain no wheat, eggs, or dairy, and the reusable tins also make ideal gifts.
Companies mentioned：株式会社Cake.jp
Japanese family restaurant chain Washoku Sato will offer its limited-time takeout menu “Take Out the Seasonal Flavors of Early Summer” from April 16 to May 27. The menu features boxed meals and rice dishes made with early-summer ingredients and wild-caught tuna.
Companies mentioned：サトフードサービス株式会社、SRSホールディングス株式会社
エース株式会社’s travel bag brand “Proteca” will open a new sales floor, “Isetan Suitcase,” at Isetan Shinjuku on April 15, 2026. It will offer permanent custom-order and rental services for the first time and expand its product lineup.
Companies mentioned：エース株式会社
U.S. luggage brand ZERO HALLIBURTON（ゼロハリバートン） has launched all 7 styles in its premium casual bag series, UE Collection, designed for everyday use and travel. The bags are made with lightweight, durable materials and offer practical features.
Levtech will serve as a special sponsor of EVO Japan 2026, a major fighting game event taking place at Tokyo Big Sight in May 2026, for the 2nd consecutive year. It will also launch VRoad, a new initiative to support creators.
Companies mentioned：レバレジーズ株式会社
earth song, a circular-economy project promoted by JR East Cross Station, will exhibit at Earth Day Tokyo 2026. It will sell miscellaneous goods made with flowers slated for disposal, known as “loss flowers,” and hold workshops.
Companies mentioned：株式会社RIN、株式会社fog
Kappa Sushi will hold its “Hokkaido Festival” starting April 16, 2026. Hokkaido specialties such as scallops and cured sardines will be available from 110 yen.
Companies mentioned：コロワイドグループ、カッパ・クリエイト株式会社
Donut factory koe donuts kyoto will begin selling butter sandwich cookies featuring original characters designed by Yu Nagaba in its online store starting April 20.
California Pizza Kitchen Lazona Kawasaki will run the limited-time “Fresh California ~Seasonal Table~” menu campaign from April 20 to June 30, 2026. New offerings include Oriental Beef & Herb Spaghetti (2,800 yen) and Creamy Burrata & Fresh Basil Pizza (2,970 yen). California Pizza Kitchen was founded in Los Angeles in 1985.
NEC has begun offering NEORC Support Management Service for Oracle Cloud, which supports the implementation and operation of Oracle AI Database on OCI and other cloud platforms. The service provides early resolution of issues and handles inquiries on customers’ behalf.
Companies mentioned：Oracle、Amazon Web Services (AWS)、Microsoft Azure、日本オラクル株式会社
Originalロイヤルパークホテルは、5〜6月の週末限定で「アジアンフードブッフェ」を開催。同時期に「アジアンデザートフェア」も実施する。
Original日本電気株式会社（NEC）と株式会社AmbiRiseは、自治体業務の効率化を目指し、NECの財務会計システム「GPRIME財務会計」とAmbiRiseの電子請求システム「Haratte」のシステム連携を開始しました。この連携により、請求データの手入力作業が最小化され、支出命令書などの作成時の自動転記が可能になります。これにより、自治体職員の事務負担が大幅に軽減され、入力ミスによる差し戻し防止や審査プロセスの迅速化が期待されます。両社は今後も連携を通じて、自治体のバックオフィス業務のDX推進に貢献します。
NEC won 2 categories at the Salesforce Japan Partner Award 2026: “Japan Partner of the Year - Financial Services -” and “Japan Partner of the Year - Internal Use -.” In the Financial Services category, NEC was recognized for its ability to propose and implement advanced Salesforce solutions in the financial sector and contribute to business growth. In the Internal Use category, the company was praised for advancing sales DX through large-scale use of Salesforce products across the NEC Group. NEC said it will continue contributing to customers’ business growth through its long-standing partnership, which began with a Salesforce reseller agreement in 2008.
MSI Computer Japan Co., Ltd. will run a bundle campaign from April 14 to May 12, 2026. Customers who purchase an eligible MSI product—a desktop PC, laptop, or GPU with GeForce RTX 5090, 5080, 5070 Ti, or 5070—and register at the MSI Member Center will receive a standard-edition Steam® game code for “PRAGMATA™.” The campaign is limited in quantity; used and refurbished products are not eligible. Game codes can be redeemed until June 9, 2026, and will be usable from the launch date of “PRAGMATA™.”
MSI Computer Japan Co., Ltd. will begin rolling out the “Cyborg-A15-AI-B2HWFKG-5554JP,” an Applied-original gaming laptop equipped with Ryzen 7 and RTX 5060, starting April 18, 2026. The Cyborg series features a 15.6-inch, 144Hz display and powerful cooling, making it suitable for gaming, creative work, and everyday use. Equipped with the RTX 50 series, it delivers a smooth experience with the latest games and also functions as an AI gaming laptop. Its sturdy body weighs approximately 2.2 kg, making it portable and an ideal choice for beginner and intermediate gamers, students, and working professionals.
Yayoi Ken, the set-meal restaurant operated by Plenus Co., Ltd., will launch its new “Sichuan-Style Mapo Eggplant and Tofu Set Meal” at 376 locations nationwide starting April 21, 2026. The hearty dish lets diners enjoy mapo tofu and mapo eggplant together, with a rich flavor from doubanjiang, xiang la jiang, and special red miso. A spicier “Sichuan-Style Spicy Mapo Eggplant and Tofu Set Meal” and a filling set meal with a small side of fried chicken will also be available. Prices range from 1,140 to 1,470 yen, including tax.
Original株式会社プレナスが運営する「ほっともっと」は、新商品『おろしかつめし』シリーズの発売を記念し、公式X（旧Twitter）とInstagramでプレゼントキャンペーンを実施します。キャンペーン期間は2026年4月15日10:00から4月24日23:59まで。Xでは金芽米3kgが20名に、Instagramではバルミューダ BALMUDA The Rangeが1名に当たります。新商品は「焼津産鰹節だし使用 おろしかつめし(丼タイプ)」(690円)と「焼津産鰹節だし使用 おろしかつ弁当」(750円)で、全国2,423店舗で販売されます。
The 2026 spring issue of Tamago Club, a pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting magazine published by Benesse Corporation, goes on sale April 15, 2026. First published in 1993, the magazine will mark its 32nd anniversary in October 2025. The cover of this issue features model and TV personality Nicole Fujita, who announced her first pregnancy last December and is expecting to give birth in spring 2026. The issue also includes an interview with her. It is priced at 1,320 yen, including bonus items and a gift for all applicants. Tamago Club has also been revamped from 6 issues to 4, with content focused on preparing for childbirth.
Nitori Holdings Co., Ltd. will open its 13th store in Thailand, NITORI EMSPHERE, on April 24, 2026. This will be the Nitori Group’s 1,078th store overall. EMSPHERE is an urban commercial complex in Phrom Phong, Sukhumvit, Bangkok, and is expected to attract foreign residents and tourists.
マネーフォワードホーム株式会社 will launch Money Forward Academia, an online community where people can learn about money, gain hands-on experience and connect with others, on April 14, 2026.
Companies mentioned：マネーフォワードホーム株式会社
Loft Co., Ltd. will hold Decoration Party 2026, an event featuring items for decorating notebooks and planners, nationwide starting April 18, 2026.
Companies mentioned：マルマン、JAM、勝竜社、ビバリー、エポックケミカル、クオバディス・ジャパン、日本出版販売、フロンティア
Calbee, Inc. will launch its new Freshly Fried Potato Chips, Scallop and Soy Sauce Flavor, at its specialty shop Calbee Plus New Chitose Airport on April 15, 2026. The product is a freshly fried exclusive version of the existing Kettle-Cooked Chips, Scallop and Soy Sauce Flavor, which is the store’s No. 1 best-selling retail product. Made with Hokkaido scallops, it features the scallops’ rich umami, the savory aroma of soy sauce and a hint of butter.
The theatrical film Detective Conan: Fallen Angel of the Highway and 横浜市 will run a joint campaign from April 10 to July 31, 2026, to mark the film’s release. Inspired by the work’s Yokohama setting, a range of events will bring excitement to the city, including a special Ferris wheel display, a wrapped bus service and special announcements.
Companies mentioned：横浜市、公益財団法人横浜市観光協会、一般社団法人横浜みなとみらい２１、よこはまコスモワールド、泉陽興業株式会社、横浜市交通局
Original長野県の「星のや軽井沢」は、2026年7月1日から8月31日までの期間、「至福の涼感ステイ」を提供する。このプランは、都内より平均気温が約7度低い軽井沢の冷涼な気候を活かし、朝の自然散策「朝霧のこみち巡り」（無料）、昼の冷菓「涼風の八つどき」（2,662円）、夜の「蛍鑑賞」（7月中）や「棚田Barラウンジ」でのかき氷（2,700円〜）など、時間帯に応じた体験を提案する。施設は水力や地熱などの自然エネルギーを活用し、環境負荷を抑えながら涼しさを提供する。1泊の料金は1室170,000円から。
transcosmos has launched trans-scManager, a new service to support supply-demand coordination and planning across supply chains. Using companies’ PSI data, the service forecasts demand and adjusts inventory, aiming to prevent lost sales opportunities and optimize logistics costs. It uses Hitachi Solutions East Japan’s SynCAS PSI Visualizer for inventory visualization and analysis, helping address issues across the entire supply chain.
Originalシェラトン都ホテル大阪は、2026年5月1日から6月30日までの期間限定で、「初夏のスイーツ＆パン」を販売する。このプロモーションでは、抹茶、マンゴー、ベリーを使用した8種類のスイーツと2種類のパンが、ホテル内の中2階「カフェ＆グルメショップ カフェベル」で提供される。価格帯は390円から950円（消費税込）。
Mynavi has released its March 2026 report on average hourly wages for part-time and temporary jobs. The national average hourly wage was 1,296 yen, while wages in food service and food-related occupations reached a record high.
Companies mentioned：株式会社マイナビ
A survey in Japan of 500 people aged 40 and older found that only 37.6% had some understanding of menopause symptoms, with hot flashes, irritability and fatigue the most commonly reported. Although many had experienced these discomforts themselves or through family members, few sought advice, underscoring the importance of raising public awareness and providing support.
Companies mentioned：株式会社NEXER、協和薬品株式会社
A survey on “ideal living rooms and relaxing spaces” found that quiet was considered the most important factor, followed by a sofa. Many people are satisfied with their current living rooms, but a considerable number still feel there is a gap between their space and their ideal.
Companies mentioned：TRES THE SOFA TAILOR、株式会社NEXER
Daiwa House Parking Co., Ltd. will open D-Wash Hirano Nanko-dori, a pure-water car wash facility in Osaka’s Hirano Ward, on April 15, 2026. It will be the company’s first location in Osaka City and its 2nd in Osaka Prefecture. Under the concept “A car wash + lifestyle space,” the company operates 15 car wash locations across the Kanto, Hokuriku, Tokai, Kansai and Kyushu regions, and the new facility will meet demand for high-quality hand car washes in the Osaka area.
Zetton, Inc. will open the ARK HILLS SOUTH TOWER ROOFTOP LOUNGE BBQ beer garden in the rooftop garden of Ark Hills South Tower in Roppongi, Tokyo, for a limited time from April 16 to October 25, 2026. The concept blends Tex-Mex and Japanese cuisine, with several plans priced from 8,500 to 11,000 yen.
株式会社パルコ has unveiled its 2026 SUMMER season advertising campaign. Featuring rising creative talent Kin Chan Coedel, the campaign explores the joy of becoming a new version of yourself under the theme “Let go, Let in.”
Companies mentioned：株式会社パルコ
Money Forward Home opened its official online community, Money Forward Academia, on DMM Online Salon on April 14. For a monthly fee of 980 yen, it offers a place to learn about money and connect with others.
Companies mentioned：合同会社DMM.com
株式会社エムディエヌコーポレーション (MdN) has released Dinosaur Origami Encyclopedia: Folding from 1 Sheet Without Cutting. This revised edition presents sophisticated origami models of popular dinosaurs and ancient creatures such as ammonites and mammoths, all folded from 1 sheet without cutting. Clear, detailed instructions with photos make it enjoyable even for beginners, while helping parents and children develop dexterity, concentration and spatial reasoning. This book brings together learning and play and is sure to captivate dinosaur fans of all ages.
株式会社インプレス has published PL/pgSQL Complete Guide: Creating Stored Programs for Practical Use, a hands-on guide to PL/pgSQL, PostgreSQL’s procedural language. The book is useful for developers looking to improve their database skills.
Companies mentioned：株式会社インプレス、株式会社インプレスR&D
Kodansha Bunko will launch a new series, “STORY IN POCKET,” on April 15, 2026. The 1st releases will be Keigo Higashino’s “A Story of a Small, Deliberate Act” and Jiro Akagawa’s “A Detour Tomorrow,” priced at 550 yen each, including tax. Going forward, works by popular authors including Takeshi Shiota, Yukito Ayatsuji, Jun Ikeido, Mieko Kawakami, Mizuki Tsujimura, Yuu Nagira, Miyuki Miyabe, Haruki Murakami and Sayaka Murata are scheduled to be published at a pace of 1-2 books per month.
Stardom Inc. announced additional matchups for “Mizkan Fruityss presents ALL STAR GRAND QUEENDOM 2026,” to be held at Yokohama Arena in Kanagawa on April 26, 2026, and reported that Mizkan Co., Ltd. had been selected as the title sponsor. The press conference was held on April 12, 2026. Matchups for the major championship bouts have been decided.
Instagram management tool “HINOME” has launched the new “Hashtag Research” and “Full Comment Management” features. Together with the Meta ad placement feature launched in February 2026, the tool now provides analysis, advertising and campaign management in one place. The new features enable automatic collection of hashtag posts and comprehensive comment management, reducing manual work and improving data accuracy. Ads placed through HINOME also avoid a 30% service fee.
Southern Breeze Co., Ltd. is a Japanese travel company founded in 1996, with directly operated branches in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. Drawing on 30 years of experience, the company is strengthening its B2B partnerships for the Japanese market. Its services feature high-quality travel arrangements without intermediary commissions and a track record of arranging travel for more than 6万6千 tourists annually. It also operates “WEB Tariff,” which allows travel agencies to check the latest rates in real time, 24 hours a day.
Morrow World will run new brand message ads on the JR Yamanote Line from April 13 to May 10, 2026, featuring former professional soccer player Shinji Ono, official ambassador for the online English coaching service ENGLEAD. ENGLEAD has earned No.1 rankings in 3 categories in the online English coaching industry and has also been selected for the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry’s reskilling program. The ads emphasize the importance of learning English to business professionals working in the Tokyo metropolitan area. A subsidy of up to 560,000 yen is also available. Ono became an official ambassador in January 2026 and has been a user for 4 years.
Com2uS Holdings has signed an Asia publishing agreement with French game publisher New Tales SAS for “Fading Echo,” an action-adventure game for PC and consoles. Under the agreement, it will handle local services for “Fading Echo” in major Asian markets including Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Developed by Emeteria, the game has players control Wan, a young hero who can switch between human and underwater forms, as they explore, fight and solve puzzles. It is scheduled to launch in the second half of 2026 on various platforms, including PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S.
On April 2, 2026, a 2nd lawsuit seeking to hold the government legally responsible for climate action was filed at the Tokyo District Court, with 454 new plaintiffs in the “Climate Justice Lawsuit.” This brings the total number of plaintiffs to 906, including those in the initial lawsuit filed in December 2025. A survey of plaintiffs found that climate change is affecting their health, mental well-being and economic activity. A crowdfunding campaign to support the lawsuit has also launched on CALL4.
Wantedly has launched an event feature for its next-generation recruitment management system, “Wantedly Hire.” Companies can now manage everything in one place, from creating event announcement pages and accepting applications to checking attendance and sending selection information. The feature is available at no additional cost to companies with a Growth plan or higher, and enables centralized management of candidate information and a smoother selection experience. Wantedly Hire was developed by Wantedly, which operates the business social network “Wantedly,” launched in November 2024 and now with more than 44,000 registered companies and 4.37 million individual users.
bemyfriends, a global fandom business specialist, has officially launched its in-house creative goods brand “BBD (BIBBIDI).” BBD brings together bemyfriends’ creative capabilities, built through supporting all areas of fandom business, including connecting IP with fans, commerce, content and community. Its first product line, “T1klz,” is a creative goods series based on the IP of South Korean esports team “T1” and will debut at T1 home games being held from April 24 to 26. BBD aims to deliver immersive fandom experiences by incorporating fans’ perspectives throughout the planning process.
The Japan Association of Small and Medium-Sized Business Owners will hold the “Grant and Subsidy Utilization Seminar 2026 in Oita” at J:COM Horuto Hall Oita on April 24, 2026. The seminar will explain grant and subsidy programs available to small and midsize corporations facing rising labor and raw material costs, from how to find eligible programs to application know-how. It aims to address the information gap that causes small and midsize businesses to miss out on support they are entitled to receive. The seminar, which was held more than 100 times nationwide last year, is coming to Oita.
LF Research and the Cloud Native Computing Foundation (CNCF) jointly conducted their annual “CNCF Annual Cloud Native Survey” of the cloud-native community in 2025 and have released the report. Key topics include Kubernetes’ evolution into an AI infrastructure platform, the maturity of cloud native, and the significant gap between ambitions for AI and the realities of infrastructure. The report is available for download in Japanese and in the original English.
Using cryo-electron microscopy and single-particle analysis, researchers elucidated at high resolution the native supramolecular structures of ATP synthase and respiratory chain supercomplexes in the inner mitochondrial membrane. The findings are expected to bring a paradigm shift to disease-related research and the study of membrane protein structures.
The Japan Association of Small and Medium-Sized Business Owners will hold the “Grant and Subsidy Utilization Seminar 2026 in Miyazaki” at Miyazaki Bougainvillea Airport on April 23, 2026. The seminar will explain how small and midsize corporations struggling with rising labor and raw material costs can use grants and subsidies, along with application know-how. It has been held more than 100 times nationwide, with more than 9,000 companies participating, and will offer practical content that also takes local information in Miyazaki into account. Admission is free.
MARIÉLAN will launch “あの日® Y-ODORANT,” a femcare powder mist featuring a fresh “lactic acid bacteria biotics formula,” on April 24, 2026. The product addresses concerns about stuffiness and odor, with fine powder adhering to the skin to keep it comfortable. Formulated with carefully selected ingredients including ceramide NP and Lactobacillus, it delivers triple care focused on the skin flora and moisture. The price is 2,970 yen (tax included).
株式会社えびラーメンとチョコレートモンブランが食べたい surveyed 1,200 people nationwide on the influence and credibility of media. The survey found that while social media use is growing among younger people, television still ranks No. 1 in overall credibility.
Companies mentioned：Freeasy
“Kaori Haku,” an event where visitors can experience Japanese incense culture, will be held in Ginza, Kyoto and Kamakura from April 18 to May 17, 2026. Kamakura has been added to the lineup, with rare opportunities to experience fragrant wood at temples and take part in workshops.
Companies mentioned：鳩居堂、松栄堂、日本香堂、鬼頭天薫堂、鎌倉五大堂明王院、浄智寺
“Kaori Haku 2026,” an event offering hands-on experiences of Japanese incense culture and co-hosted by 鳩居堂, 松栄堂 and 日本香堂, will be held in Kyoto. A limited-edition incense called “TRINEX,” themed around the future, will be released, and workshops will also be held.
Companies mentioned：鳩居堂、松栄堂、日本香堂、株式会社良品計画（無印良品）
“Kaori Haku 2026,” an event where visitors can experience Japanese incense culture, will be held mainly in Ginza from April 18 to May 17, 2026. The event will showcase the appeal of Japanese scents and scents of the future through sales of limited-edition incense jointly developed by 3 long-established incense companies, as well as workshops such as incense ceremony experiences and sachet making.
Companies mentioned：鳩居堂、松栄堂、日本香堂（香十）、無印良品 銀座
On March 18, 2026, 株式会社ソーシャルテック launched “チャップアップMDオンライン,” an online medical consultation service offered under its hair-growth brand “CHAP UP” in partnership with 代々木ウィルクリニック.
Companies mentioned：代々木ウィルクリニック
Green Monster subsidiary Financial Free College held “Lion Brother’s U.S. Stock Talk Show,” featuring Anri Sugihara as a guest. About 200 people attended.
Companies mentioned：グリーンモンスター株式会社、Amazon
株式会社ワサビ and LUXCLUSIF will jointly hold a free executive event on global strategies for secondhand fashion on May 28, 2026. LUXCLUSIF executives, from a company under Farfetch, one of the world’s largest luxury fashion platforms, will discuss the latest market trends and ways to expand businesses using AI-driven technology. The venue is T.Y.HARBOR, and a networking reception will also be held.
Original認定NPO法人グッドネーバーズ・ジャパンは、低所得のひとり親家庭を対象とした調査で、学校給食のない休日に1日2食以下で過ごす子どもが平日の3倍に増加することを発表した。
Companies mentioned：認定NPO法人グッドネーバーズ・ジャパン
株式会社マリオン, which operates major crepe retailer “マリオンクレープ,” received support with data integration and the development of a data analytics foundation to address the challenge of scattered data. POS, attendance management and core systems were connected to a DWH, while automated data updates using RPA achieved data integration and improved quality. This also automated the preparation of daily and monthly store reports, helping reduce employee workload. Looker Studio was introduced as a BI tool, enabling accurate sales and cost management and establishing a system for rapid improvements to store operations and the development of initiatives. The company is considering building an AI-powered demand forecasting and cost-ratio alert system in the future.
プティルウ will release “おしゃれこぐま collection 2026夏,” dress-up outfits for plush toys, on April 14. Designed for “plush photography,” the collection comes in 2 themes: resort and formal.
Companies mentioned：株式会社プティルウ、楽天市場、アマゾン、YAHOO