長岡京病院 has fully launched its Spine Center. Founded in 2018, the company operates on the principle of “keeping medical care running,” providing an environment where medical professionals can focus on care and supporting management optimization.
誠進堂 to host a title game with professional basketball team 滋賀レイクス
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
誠進堂, based in Shiga Prefecture, will host a title game with professional basketball team 滋賀レイクス. The event aims to contribute to the local community and raise brand awareness.
Shares in 東栄技工株式会社 have been transferred to an independent small- and mid-cap buyout fund. The fund combines business management and financial investment, aiming to support growth and revitalize local communities through close collaboration with portfolio companies.
AZ to host free webinar on April 28 (Tuesday) at 12:30: “Amazon × Gift Strategy: How to design a winning approach for Mother’s Day and Father’s Day demand”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
AZ, a company supporting e-commerce, SaaS and startups, will host a free webinar on April 28 covering gift strategies for the Mother’s Day and Father’s Day shopping seasons on Amazon. It will share expertise in digital marketing and digital transformation.
AREA and moln unveil collaborative suitcase with an original design
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
NODA Japan, which operates the original interior brand AREA, has unveiled an original-design suitcase created in collaboration with moln. The product combines refined design with practicality.
Save properties from “management failure” in 2030! All 3 volumes of “How Can You Protect Your Building’s Asset Value?” released simultaneously on Kindle
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ビルポ has simultaneously released 3 Kindle books on preserving real estate assets, focusing on the “management failure” issue of 2030. The books offer a perspective informed by the company’s work supporting the building maintenance industry.
GENKI INNOVATION CENTER NIIZA opens its doors to share its practices as a multi-service welfare facility. Tour to explore operations and environmental design
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社GENKI INNOVATION COMPANY will open its multi-service welfare facility, GENKI INNOVATION CENTER NIIZA, to visitors and hold a tour showcasing its operating practices. The tour will share expertise in running multi-service facilities and designing their environments.
A drink from Fukuoka Prefecture making its way to the world: “在る宵 天郷 -Amanosato,” crafted by 天郷醸造所, selected for the official Cannes Film Festival ceremony “CANNES GALA”!!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Craft sake “在る宵 天郷,” made by 天郷醸造所 in Fukuoka Prefecture, has been selected to be served at an official Cannes Film Festival ceremony. The selection will help showcase the region’s appeal to the world through traditional sake brewing.
[Event report] Investor Hiroto Kiritani, with about 40 years of investment experience, exclusively reveals his strategy during market downturns; more than 3,300 attend GFS special seminar
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Financial education school GFS hosted a special seminar with investor Hiroto Kiritani, who shared investment strategies for sharp market downturns. More than 3,300 people attended, and the event concluded successfully.
Lessons from the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake brought to Noto: Second HYOGO.1 BOND donation presented to Suzu, Ishikawa Prefecture, to keep the bonds of support alive
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
HAQTSUYA, a joint venture between Hakuhodo and Otsuya, drew on lessons from the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake to present the second HYOGO.1 BOND relief donation to Suzu, Ishikawa Prefecture, which was affected by the Noto Peninsula Earthquake.
Tahiti Festa 2026 Yokohama will be held. The festival is organized by a company that runs Tahiti-related businesses in Japan, including importing and selling Tahitian food products, miscellaneous goods and beauty products, organizing events, and operating Tahitian dance studios.
株式会社アイアットOEC obtains company-wide ISO/IEC 27001 certification and ISO/IEC 27017 certification, strengthening security across the company and its cloud services
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アイアットOEC has obtained ISO/IEC 27001 and ISO/IEC 27017 certifications company-wide, strengthening its security framework. This enhances the reliability of information security management throughout the company, including its cloud services.
アーティゾン美術館 has created “京橋ARTさんぽMAP,” a guide to exploring the culture of the Kyobashi area, and will begin distributing it on April 23. The map helps visitors discover the appeal of the museum and its surroundings.
Premium care brand Itoguchi, featuring Midorimayu silk, launches limited-edition set for convenient Golden Week outings
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
絹生活研究所’s premium care brand Itoguchi has launched a Golden Week limited-edition set featuring rare “Midorimayu” silk. The high-quality products, made using a regional specialty, are attracting consumer interest.
Launch of eco-friendly hotel amenities in Japan against the backdrop of Marriott International’s sustainability policy
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
MiYO ORGANIC has begun offering eco-friendly hotel amenities in Japan in line with Marriott International’s sustainability policy. The company is working to reduce plastic use with products such as bamboo toothbrushes.
ジャングリア沖縄 to tackle heat in 2026; first initiative sees 花王’s 「ビオレ」 provide strong support for a comfortable and clean experience
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The theme park “JUNGLIA,” under development in northern Okinawa, is partnering with 花王’s 「ビオレ」 to strengthen heat countermeasures ahead of its opening in 2026.
オリジナルプリント.jp has launched 4 new products, including three-dimensional “acrylic stickers.” Using IT- and AI-powered on-demand printing technology, the company is promoting manufacturing with a lower environmental impact in response to customer needs.
Successful demonstration ahead of launch of “24/7 responsive corporate PPA”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Scalar has successfully demonstrated its technology ahead of launching a “24/7 responsive corporate PPA.” The company’s data management technology points to potential applications in sustainable energy solutions.
「プラステ イオンモール札幌発寒店」 to reopen in expanded, relocated premises on Friday, April 24; located inside the 2nd-floor ユニクロ store as the only PLST store in Hokkaido carrying menswear
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Apparel brand PLST (プラステ) will reopen its イオンモール札幌発寒店 in expanded, relocated premises on April 24. It will be the only store in Hokkaido carrying menswear.
Limited-edition items honoring Queen Elizabeth 2 on the 100th anniversary of her birth; released in limited quantities starting Friday, April 17
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
BLBG株式会社 will release limited-edition items commemorating the 100th anniversary of the birth of Queen Elizabeth 2 at the British brand select shop 「ヴァルカナイズ・ロンドン」 starting April 17.
Next-generation mobility brand “eXs(エクス)” to make its first appearance at 「サイクルモード東京2026」, one of Japan’s largest sports cycling festivals
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Next-generation mobility brand “eXs(エクス)” will make its first appearance at 「サイクルモード東京2026」, one of Japan’s largest sports cycling festivals. The initiative is by a company that sells motor parts under the concept of “creating people who ride,” and aims to raise brand awareness and expand the market.
Onboard public recording event for the radio program “Aim for It! Hokkaido!!”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A 商船三井 group company will hold an onboard public recording event for the radio program 「めざせ!北海道!!」, promoting its maritime transport services and travel aboard the ferry 「さんふらわあ」.
Inspire High releases 6 new sessions focused on pre-trip learning for school excursions, featuring a diverse range of adults, from travel writers who journey around the world and an Oxford historian to people who carry on local cultures
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The EdTech program Inspire High has released 6 new sessions focused on pre-trip learning for school excursions for junior and senior high school students.
AI data platform “COMETA” officially launches new “Query Collection” feature for sharing and using SQL knowledge across organizations
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
primeNumber, provider of the AI data platform “COMETA,” has officially launched “Query Collection,” a feature for sharing and using SQL knowledge across organizations.
大月アウトドアフィールドKASHINISHI now offering “Premium BBQ and Relaxing Glamping” from April 8
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
大月アウトドアフィールドKASHINISHI in Otsuki Town, Kochi Prefecture, began offering “Premium BBQ and Relaxing Glamping” on April 8. The offering is part of a tourism initiative by a community development company working to increase visitors and refresh the region’s appeal.
Limited release: “YAKIMARU” now comes in a roughly 1.7-times-larger size! Introducing the “Cassette Gas Smokeless BBQ Grill ‘YAKIMARU BIG’” for enjoying yakiniku with a group without worrying about smoke
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Iwatani has launched the “Cassette Gas Smokeless BBQ Grill ‘YAKIMARU BIG.’” At about 1.7 times the size, it lets larger groups enjoy authentic yakiniku without worrying about smoke.
Flying Tiger: Get excited for the rainy season with rain gear you’ll want to show off! New unisex rain gear arrives
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Flying Tiger Copenhagen has launched new unisex rain gear designed to brighten rainy days. The Danish lifestyle goods store offers a shopping experience featuring humorous, colorful designs.
The intuitively easy-to-use “Milmoon Moon-Viewing Telescope”: standalone Milmoon optical tube goes on sale Friday, April 24. The “PS-149 tripod” also launches on the same day.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A telescope manufacturer will launch the standalone optical tube for 「ミルムーン」, which is designed for intuitive operation, along with the 「PS-149三脚」, starting April 24.
A seasonal treat to savor: indulge in a taste comparison of 5 flavors! A lineup of juicy melon desserts: “Melon Sweets Fair” at 小田急ホテルセンチュリーサザンタワー
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
小田急ホテルセンチュリーサザンタワー is holding a “Melon Sweets Fair,” offering a taste comparison of 5 juicy melon desserts and promoting a luxurious seasonal experience.
[A new cram school focused on turning academic setbacks into success] Completely revamped curriculum for students aiming for admission to former Imperial Universities and highly competitive private universities, using AI and successful applicants’ data
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Study Chain has completely revamped its curriculum, specializing in helping students achieve unexpected admissions success at former Imperial Universities and highly selective private universities, using AI and admissions data.
In the Digital Skill Standard Ver2.0 released by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and IPA, LTS’s Masaki Yamamoto led the redefinition of the Business Architect role.
Dentsu Research Institute wins “Breakthrough Innovation Partner of the Year” from UiPath
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Dentsu Research Institute won “Breakthrough Innovation Partner of the Year” from leading RPA software company UiPath. Its track record in systems integration and other areas was recognized.
Book “5 Routes: Career Strategies That Reward Hard Work” to be released April 17
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
JMAM will release the new book “5 Routes: Career Strategies That Reward Hard Work” on April 17. It is understood to offer support for personal growth and career development.
Groupe Rocher and Dassault Systèmes launch new collaboration to transform the development of natural cosmetics formulations using virtual twin technology
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Groupe Rocher and Dassault Systèmes have launched a new collaboration using virtual twin technology to transform the development of natural cosmetics formulations. The partnership aims to bring innovation and efficiency to research and development processes in the beauty industry.
JLL supports portfolio transaction involving 16 Kyoto hotels in partnership with エクレシア・アセット・マネジメント
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
JLL, a full-service real estate services company, supported a portfolio transaction involving 16 hotel properties in Kyoto in partnership with エクレシア・アセット・マネジメント.
Authentic gourmet conveyor-belt sushi restaurant にぎりの徳兵衛 to reopen its Hashima location on April 18 (Saturday), with a live filleting show featuring domestically sourced fresh bluefin tuna for the whole family to enjoy!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Hashima location of conveyor-belt sushi restaurant にぎりの徳兵衛 will reopen on April 18. A live filleting show featuring domestically sourced fresh bluefin tuna will also be held.
[Independent survey] Latest for 2026: Ranking of popular hotels and inns among international visitors [Hokkaido edition] — ベッセルホテルカンパーナすすきの takes 1st place! | Popular hotels and inns among inbound visitors #Inbound #MEO
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
In the latest 2026 survey ranking hotels and inns in Hokkaido popular with international visitors, ベッセルホテルカンパーナすすきの took 1st place. The results reflect the needs of inbound tourists.
株式会社mov sponsors RubyKaigi 2026 as a Drinkup sponsor
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社mov is sponsoring RubyKaigi 2026 as a Drinkup sponsor. The company aims to provide services that are “half a step ahead” to help solve clients’ challenges.
[UNTITLED] “Stylish and Functional: Cool Clothing for Adults Vol. 1” feature page to launch on the official online store from Friday, April 17
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
WORLD’s UNTITLED brand will launch the “Stylish and Functional Clothing for Adults Vol. 1” feature page on its online store from April 17, offering fashion solutions for adults.
[新潟医療福祉大学] Ranks 3rd nationwide in Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology research funding!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
新潟医療福祉大学 ranked 3rd nationwide in Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology research funding. As a member of NSGグループ, it contributes to regional revitalization.
[OMO5函館] Head straight to the summit of Mount Hakodate, one of Japan’s 三 major night views, while avoiding crowds! “函館山夜景ダイレクトバス” to begin service on April 20, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
星野リゾート’s OMO5函館 will begin operating the “函館山夜景ダイレクトバス” on April 20, 2026, offering a direct route to Mount Hakodate while avoiding crowds.
2026 applications open for the “Panasonic NPO/NGO Support Fund for SDGs” — grants to strengthen the organizational foundations of NPOs/NGOs working to “alleviate poverty”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Panasonic is launching its 2026 NPO/NGO Support Fund for SDGs, offering grants to strengthen the organizational capacity of nonprofits focused on poverty alleviation.
[ThinkingAI and Minimax form strategic partnership] Jointly developing an AI Agent platform for enterprises
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ThinkingData and Minimax have formed a strategic partnership to jointly develop an AI Agent platform for enterprises. They aim to accelerate the use of AI and data-driven decision-making.
[Age-friendly measures implemented] Launch of exercise program to help prevent workplace injuries and reduce physical strain among older employees
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
フラクタルワークアウト株式会社 has launched an age-friendly exercise program designed to help prevent workplace injuries and reduce physical strain among older employees.
Relay-style ramen project “POPUPラーメン” opens its first location in Tokyo’s Toyosu area! For its 1st offering, “純麦わんたんめん,” a ramen shop supervised by the owner of popular, hard-to-book restaurant “純麦,” will open.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The relay-style ramen project “POPUPラーメン” has opened its first location in Tokyo’s Toyosu area. Its 1st offering is “純麦わんたんめん,” supervised by the owner of popular restaurant “純麦.”
A rental house becomes a home of your own after 7 years. Applications open from 4/23 in Kawanehon, Shizuoka, for “rent-to-own housing” requiring no mortgage. A new housing option to encourage newcomers to settle in the area while tackling population decline and the rise in vacant homes.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
空き家買取専科 will begin accepting applications on April 23 for “rent-to-own housing” in Kawanehon, Shizuoka. The new program lets residents own a home after 7 years without a mortgage and aims to address population decline and vacant homes.
NPO earth tree seeks organizers to host screenings of the complete edition of the film “Tsunagari Mirai” — Tickets for companies and organizations go on sale April 15
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
NPO earth tree is seeking organizers to host screenings of the complete edition of the film “Tsunagari Mirai.” Sales of tickets for companies and organizations begin April 15, aiming to raise awareness of social issues.
“[For current operators] Differentiate your e-commerce strategy through competitor site comparisons! Seminar reveals the current state of your online store and areas for improvement” to be held May 1, 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
マーケティングアソシエーション株式会社 will hold an e-commerce strategy seminar on May 1, 2026. It will explain competitor comparisons and areas for improvement, supporting businesses currently operating online stores.
Japan Travel Awards publishes travel book featuring 70 of Japan's “places that move you”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A Tokyo-based bilingual creative agency has published a travel book featuring 70 of Japan's “places that move you.” It showcases Japan's appeal from a global perspective.
Designing incentives for sales and retail roles to drive results — A framework for compensation systems that do not rely solely on sales
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
セレクションアンドバリエーション has announced a framework for designing incentives for sales and retail roles that do not rely solely on sales. It aims to support the design of more comprehensive and sustainable compensation systems.
[Musashiseki and Nishimagome] “CHART,” a bodywork and training studio, opens 2 locations. A “low-key” personal gym focused on improving physical well-being and building healthy habits.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“CHART,” a bodywork and training studio, has opened 2 new locations in Musashiseki and Nishimagome. The “low-key” personal gym focuses on improving physical function.
From Kumagaya junior high school students to their mothers: “Mother's Day Thank-You Bath” event featuring messages of gratitude begins May 7 at Ofuro Cafe Hareniwa no Yu!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The “Mother's Day Thank-You Bath” event begins May 7 at Ofuro Cafe Hareniwa no Yu. The event gives junior high school students in Kumagaya a chance to express their gratitude to their mothers.
Latest release from the ホロライブ fan-game brand “holo Indie”: baseball game “Moero!! Holo Yakyu” launches on Steam today! 20% off launch sale also underway!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The latest release from the ホロライブ fan-game brand “holo Indie,” the baseball game “Moero!! Holo Yakyu,” launched on Steam today, with a 20% off launch sale also underway. The release is part of efforts to strengthen support for independent creators.
TXOne Networks begins offering preview version of “Stellar Discover”: enables endpoint visibility in OT environments without affecting operations
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
TXOne Networks has begun offering a preview version of “Stellar Discover,” an endpoint visibility solution for OT environments. It strengthens OT security without affecting operations.
Datachain joins student hackathon “Tornado 2026” as an official partner, providing technical support for sending prize money in JPYC and helping young people understand stablecoins
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Datachain has joined the student hackathon “Tornado 2026” as an official partner, providing technical support for sending prize money in JPYC. It is helping promote young people's understanding of stablecoins.
[Shake Shack] A new kind of limited-time shake to enjoy by cracking the chocolate! “Hazelnut Chocolate Shake,” featuring crisp, crackable chocolate, launches April 24 (Friday)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Shake Shack will launch its new limited-time “Hazelnut Chocolate Shake” on April 24 (Friday), featuring crisp, crackable chocolate. The new product is offered by a company with a portfolio of various brands.
[Limited time] Created in response to customer feedback: “Juicy Jumbo Shrimp Request Pizza” available at all Pecori locations (April 20-May 10)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The “Juicy Jumbo Shrimp Request Pizza,” created in response to customer feedback, will be available for a limited time at all Pecori locations from April 20 to May 10.
株式会社ナカザワ reports on memorial gathering for founder and former Chairman Kohei Nakazawa
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A memorial gathering was held for Kohei Nakazawa, founder and former chairman of 株式会社ナカザワ. Guided by the spirit of sanpo-yoshi, the company has expanded its network of locations in Japan and overseas and continues to take on new businesses.
Finally!! Opening tomorrow at 10 a.m.! Japan's only Chinese tea milk tea that produces “smoke.” “CHAZHONG-茶种- チャジャン,” a 1-minute walk from Yokohama Station, Saturday, April 18 [Trademark and design registration applications pending]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Food Seed will open “CHAZHONG-茶种- チャジャン,” a specialty shop serving Chinese tea milk tea that produces “smoke,” a first in Japan, on Saturday, April 18, a 1-minute walk from Yokohama Station. It aims to bring new hope to the challenging food service industry and enrich its future.
株式会社ラドルフ to grand-open “81FACTORY&CAFE,” an experience-based kids' cafe with play equipment for parents and children, on April 19; a new family destination opens in Sakai, Osaka
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ラドルフ, which operates an automotive business, will grand-open “81FACTORY&CAFE,” a kids' cafe with play equipment, in Sakai, Osaka Prefecture, on April 19.
株式会社grubio joins the University Technology Transfer Association (UNITT) as a supporting member — the company's representative appointed to the Networking Committee
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
grubio Co., Ltd. has joined the University Network for Innovation and Technology Transfer (UNITT) as a supporting member. The company’s representative has taken up a position on the Networking Committee and will promote industry-academia collaboration in the life sciences.
[Taking place in June 2026] Cambodia Business Study Tour: 4 Days on the Front Lines of Growth
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A Cambodia business study tour will take place in June 2026. Over 4 days, participants will explore the front lines of Cambodia’s remarkable growth, while the Cambodia-Japan Cooperation Center (CJCC) contributes through business training and the promotion of交流.
“Kawaii!”-Filled, Casual and Pop Car Meet “GFGS CarLife In Yahiko vol.5” to Be Held
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A manufacturer in Kamo, Niigata Prefecture, will hold a casual and pop car meet called “GFGS CarLife In Yahiko vol.5” in Yahiko, Niigata Prefecture. The company, which practices sustainable manufacturing, will showcase new attractions through the event.
株式会社ノベルティ Joins as a Supporting Sponsor of “GAAD Japan 2026,” a Day for Considering Accessibility Around the World — Public Viewing to Be Held at Its Office
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ノベルティ has joined “GAAD Japan 2026,” a global event promoting accessibility, as a supporting sponsor and will hold a public viewing at its office.
Stage Production “魔女の嘘と月の心音”: Original Work Directed and Written by 株式会社Office ENDLESS Representative Takanori Shimoura to Be Streamed Free for 1 Month for a Limited Time! Starring Ryoko Tanaka, Yojiro Murata, Rita Aizawa and Haruna Iikubo!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The original stage production “魔女の嘘と月の心音,” directed by 株式会社Office ENDLESS representative Takanori Shimoura, will be available free for 1 month for a limited time.
Yokohama vintage watch specialist “FIRE KIDS” has been selected as a sponsor of “Egafes” in 2026. The store, which boasts the No. 1 in-store inventory, will increase its brand exposure through the event.
Hidakara’s New Base, Aiming to Be a Local “Design Hub,” Completed in Hida, Gifu Prefecture
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Hidakara has completed a new base in Hida, Gifu Prefecture. Aiming to be a local design hub, it is developing businesses that use Hida ingredients under its mission to “create a delicious and fascinating future.”
Children’s Clothing Resale Shop “ECOLIFE COCO” to Grand Open Its New “ララガーデン長町店” on Friday, April 24, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Children’s clothing resale shop “ECOLIFE COCO” will grand open “ララガーデン長町店” on April 24, 2026. It buys children’s clothes and childcare goods that are no longer needed and offers them at low prices, making it a recycling shop that is kind to mothers and the planet.
[Now Recruiting Participants] Joycal Japan President Yukio Hayakawa to Join “社長メシ,” Where Job Seekers Connect with Company Presidents Over a Meal, on April 27
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Joycal Japan president Yukio Hayakawa will hold “社長メシ,” an event where he meets and talks with job seekers over a meal, on April 27.
Advance Ticket Lottery for the Sapporo Venue of the Jujutsu Kaisen Animation Exhibition “懐玉・玉折” and “渋谷事変” Starts May 8!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The advance ticket lottery for the Sapporo venue of the “懐玉・玉折” and “渋谷事変” exhibition from the anime “Jujutsu Kaisen” starts May 8. 北海道放送 has stated its commitment, since its founding, to recognizing its public role and contributing to culture, the economy and welfare.