AI News 180m Report

2026-05-18 09:00–12:00 JST

734 received, 734 listed, 3 sources ・ Page 2 of 8

One place for news and notices from 2 countries/regions: Japan, 711 items from 2 sources; Taiwan, 23 items from 1 source.

One edition every 180 minutes: every item from every source received in the period, with the original link.

Japan | PR TIMES (continued)(692)

A blissful dinner from “the world’s happiest country”! Finland invites the world to its first-ever official tasting event

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Visit Finland will hold the world’s first official tasting event in September 2026. Applications open worldwide on May 18 for 16 invitation spots.

Companies mentioned:Visit Finland、Visit Rovaniemi

“The New Book School” opens!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Maruzen Junkudo Bookstores has launched “The New Book School,” a project promoting a culture of reading new books through a curated book fair featuring 100 titles, original notebooks and celebrity ambassadors.

Companies mentioned:株式会社丸善ジュンク堂書店

こころのカンパニー partners with Shonai Bank and Hokuto Bank to offer “Oyatokō” and “Ohisapo”

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

こころのカンパニー has partnered with Shonai Bank and Hokuto Bank to launch asset management and daily living support services for older adults. The services address dementia prevention and support for people living alone through the regional banks’ customer networks.

Companies mentioned:フィデアホールディングス株式会社、株式会社荘内銀行、株式会社北都銀行、トリニティ・テクノロジー株式会社

Crisp Salad Works to switch 2 locations to an all-980-yen menu; full revamp at Shinjuku Mitsui Building and Ariake Garden stores from June 3

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Aiming to make salads part of everyday meals, custom salad chain Crisp Salad Works will test a new menu strategy at 2 locations, offering all 8 products at a uniform price of 980 yen.

Companies mentioned:株式会社CRISP、クリスプサラダワークス (Crisp Salad Works)

Shiseido Professional SUBLIMIC launches special website themed around “head skin care,” a new routine it recommends

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Shiseido Professional has launched a special website for its premium haircare brand “SUBLIMIC,” promoting “head skin care” as a new care routine and featuring interviews with several industry experts.

Companies mentioned:資生堂プロフェッショナル株式会社、ABBEY、LONESS、AMATA、Un ami omotesando、SUNVALLEY

Table tennis brand Butterfly sponsors the town-walking event “Asagaya PICNIC2026”

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

株式会社タマス is sponsoring the local event “Asagaya PICNIC2026” for the 2nd consecutive year. The event promotes community interaction and wider participation in sports through mini-racket making and table tennis experiences.

75th anniversary project of the Japanese Consumers’ Co-operative Union: 学研 manga “The Secrets of Co-ops” for elementary school students is complete!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

To mark its 75th anniversary, the Japanese Consumers’ Co-operative Union has produced 学研 manga “The Secrets of Co-ops” for elementary school students. Starting in May 2026, it will be donated to approximately 24,000 educational institutions and other organizations nationwide to pass on the role of co-ops to the next generation.

Companies mentioned:学研

Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University submits clinical trial notification for a physician-initiated Phase III trial of the company’s BNCT device in patients with recurrent glioblastoma

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Sumitomo Heavy Industries’ BNCT treatment system will be used in a physician-initiated Phase III clinical trial of recurrent glioblastoma led by Osaka Medical and Pharmaceutical University.

Companies mentioned:住友重機械工業株式会社、学校法人大阪医科薬科大学、ステラファーマ株式会社、大阪医科薬科大学病院、大阪医科薬科大学 関西BNCT共同医療センター

Kellogg’s “All-Bran” to air new TV commercial starting Sunday, May 17; brand ambassador Natsuko Yokozawa to share All-Bran’s appeal

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Kellogg’s has begun airing a new commercial for “All-Bran,” featuring Natsuko Yokozawa to promote “gut health you can feel,” backed by scientific evidence.

Companies mentioned:日本ケロッグ

TESS Group wins contract from 株式会社リエネ・エナジー Group to install a grid-scale battery storage facility

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Tess Engineering has won a contract from Reene Energy Group to install a grid-scale battery storage facility in Tagawa, Fukuoka Prefecture, with a capacity of approximately 8.9 MWh. Delivery is scheduled for December 2026.

Companies mentioned:株式会社リエネ・エナジー、テスホールディングス株式会社

Social Base, a subsidiary of CyberBuzz based in Miyazaki, to hold recruitment PR strategy seminars on June 3 and 10, showing regional businesses how to become “employers of choice” on Instagram

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Social Base, a CyberBuzz subsidiary, will hold free seminars on June 3 and 10 for regional businesses on recruitment PR strategies using Instagram, helping address labor shortages.

Companies mentioned:株式会社サイバー・バズ、株式会社ソーシャルベース、株式会社カケハシスカイ

LAPRAS partners with Unico Search, a pioneer HR agent with one of South Korea’s largest* talent databases

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

LAPRAS has formed a business partnership with “Unico Search,” which has one of South Korea’s largest talent databases. The partnership will strengthen matching with highly skilled talent in South Korea to help address Japan’s engineer shortage.

Companies mentioned:Unico Search Inc.、Remember & Company社

Supporting the development of highly skilled international talent for global careers: 株式会社グルメ杵屋’s GK Japanese Language School holds entrance ceremony for its April 2026 intake

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

GK Japanese Language School, operated by 株式会社グルメ杵屋, held an entrance ceremony welcoming 19 new students. The school aims to develop highly skilled international talent for employment in Japan.

Companies mentioned:株式会社グルメ杵屋、グルメ杵屋ホールディングス

moomoo Securities to speak at Nasdaq-hosted “Nasdaq InnovAsia 2026 Tokyo”

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Moomoo Securities COO Yuzuru Kojima will speak at a Nasdaq-hosted event on May 18, 2026. The discussion will cover practical challenges related to 23-hour trading in U.S. stocks.

Companies mentioned:Nasdaq、楽天証券株式会社、DTCC Japan K.K.、Futu Holdings Limited

Furuno Systems begins selling “SW730,” a Wi-Fi 7 access point on Amazon; entry-level business model for SOHO/SMB customers

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Furuno Systems has launched the Wi-Fi 7 access point “SW730” on Amazon for SOHO and SMB customers. The product offers the latest communications standard at an affordable price and supports improvements to network environments at small and medium-sized businesses.

Companies mentioned:Amazon.co.jp、古野電気㈱

About 80% recognize the need to prevent heatstroke during the rainy season! Yet preventive action tends to be prompted by “midsummer, being outdoors and thirst.” Beware of rainy-season heatstroke: it can be hard to notice, but still harms the body!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

A survey by 株式会社ファイン found that awareness of heatstroke prevention during the rainy season is high, but people tend to act only after they become thirsty. The company highlights the importance of understanding rainy-season-specific risks and replenishing fluids in advance.

Companies mentioned:環境省

Exhibiting at the 36th West Japan Food Industry Creation Fair ’26

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Studist will exhibit at the 36th West Japan Food Industry Creation Fair ’26, presenting solutions for digital transformation and other challenges at food manufacturing sites through “Teachme Biz” and “iCheckup!”

Companies mentioned:株式会社スタディスト、富士キメラ総研、デロイト トーマツ ミック経済研究所、ITR

Nissen adopts Shopify to overhaul its core e-commerce platform

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Nissen has adopted Shopify’s enterprise edition as the platform for its core e-commerce site, Nissen Online. Moving away from fully custom development, the company will strengthen its hybrid sales model combining catalogs and a call center.

Companies mentioned:Shopify Japan株式会社、株式会社ニッセン、DAISO、生活の木、Allbirds、KANADEMONO、PAUL & JOE

From “Azur Lane,” the latest Gift+ series figure, “Trinidad: Dressing Trapper Ver.,” is now available as a 1/8-scale figure.

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Reservations have opened at Myethos Japan online store, operated by ADK Emotions, for the 1/8-scale “Trinidad” figure from Azur Lane. It is priced at 7,480 yen and is scheduled for release in April 2027.

Companies mentioned:株式会社ADKエモーションズ、Myethos、Manjuu Co.,Ltd.、YongShi Co.,Ltd.

Generative AI chatbot “AI Digital Staff” introduced at 青森県庁 [operating costs cut by more than 70%, with a significant improvement in workload]

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

ecbeing has introduced its ChatGPT-based “AI Digital Staff” at 青森県庁. The deployment cut operating costs by 70% and doubled usage, accelerating digital transformation in government services.

Companies mentioned:株式会社ecbeing、青森県庁

Public facilities in 名寄市 adopt the “Eneoku” power procurement support service to cut electricity costs and advance digital transformation of operations!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

名寄市 has adopted Enerbank’s “Eneoku,” cutting electricity costs by 19% across 19 facilities. The city is advancing digital transformation and decarbonization.

Companies mentioned:名寄市

The TEAMFIGHT TACTICS division of “ZETA DIVISION” has qualified for the Esports World Cup 2026.

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

ZETA DIVISION’s TFT division finished 2nd in the APAC qualifiers, securing a place in the Esports World Cup 2026, to be held in July 2026.

Companies mentioned:GANYMEDE株式会社

An original SMARTOON® by TOHO × MUGEN FACTORY, “Shadow Master: The Peerless Tale Under the Moon,” is currently running to great acclaim on the Piccoma digital manga and novel service, starting Saturday, May 16!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

The webtoon “Shadow Master,” co-produced by MUGENUP and TOHO, began serialization on Piccoma on May 16. The action series centers on revenge and a return to the past.

Companies mentioned:株式会社MUGENUP、東宝株式会社、株式会社カカオピッコマ

FoodDataBank evolves: Introducing “FoodDataBank AI,” an AI tool that automates menu proposals for the food industry!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

SARAH Inc. has launched “FoodDataBank AI,” which uses food-related big data to automate menu proposals. The service streamlines processes from analysis to document creation.

Original世界で注目トレンドの“塩コーヒー”が早くも焼き菓子に!シーキューブから夏限定『焼きティラミス sio』新発売

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Originalシーキューブが夏限定の「焼きティラミス sio」を発売。世界で注目の「塩コーヒー」トレンドを焼き菓子に取り入れ、素材と製法にこだわった一品。

Monchhichi and C3 collaborate for the first time, with an adorable limited-time package. The lineup includes “Yaki Tiramisu,” which has won triple awards in Japan and abroad, along with other products.

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Originalシーキューブが「モンチッチ」と初のコラボパッケージを展開。人気菓子2種を限定デザインで5月18日から全国発売。SNSキャンペーンも並行実施。

Companies mentioned:株式会社シュゼット・ホールディングス

[INNISFREE] Tone-up*¹ care with every wash. Introducing “Vita C Brightening Pack Foam,” a face wash inspired by skincare packs! On sale starting June 1 (Monday).

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Innisfree will launch “Vita C Brightening Pack Foam,” a new face wash inspired by skincare packs, in June. Formulated with vitamin C, it provides tone-up care.

Companies mentioned:アモーレパシフィックジャパン株式会社

Time stands still when they perform. — The 65th NHK Trophy honors the refined “precision of beauty”; the Seiko Excellent Award goes to athletes Oka and Yamaguchi, who embodied flawless execution.

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Seiko Group honored Shinnosuke Oka and Koa Yamaguchi for recording high E-scores at the 65th NHK Trophy gymnastics competition. The company continues its support, celebrating them as symbols of the “precision and beauty” represented by its watch brand.

Companies mentioned:公益財団法人日本体操協会、徳洲会体操クラブ、米田功体操クラブ

[Match Results] OsakaCitySC wins 6-2 in Round 3 to take the top spot!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Osaka City SC scored a convincing 6-2 win in Round 3 of the Kansai Soccer League Division 2, moving into provisional first place. The team has made a strong start toward its goal of promotion to the J.League.

Companies mentioned:BANDITO生駒、神戸FC1970、ラグザス株式会社、The KSLアストエンジ

An early-summer dish: Tomato and Beef Cold Noodles, available starting in June

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Kobe Kochuten will launch its summer-limited cold noodle series in June 2026. The first offering is “Tomato and Beef Cold Noodles,” featuring seasonal ingredients and low-temperature cooking techniques to evoke the season.

Order received for a grid-scale battery storage system for the “Nikko Battery Storage Facility”

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

PowerX has received an order for a 162.4 MWh battery storage system for the high-voltage “Nikko Battery Storage Facility” in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. The facility is scheduled to begin operation in 2029, with the aim of stabilizing the regional power grid.

Companies mentioned:バンプージャパン株式会社、日光バッテリー合同会社

Ryuuji × the Kunsei-ya series: A collaboration brings new flavors with “Kunsei-ya viral recipes,” Ryuuji-style

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Marudai Food has partnered with cooking researcher Ryuji to run a promotional campaign for its Kunsei-ya series. The company aims to boost brand awareness through YouTube videos and social media campaigns.

Companies mentioned:丸大食品株式会社

Original外国人が知りたい&日本人が伝えたい「今」の日本がわかる1冊。『見る・知る・遊ぶ 英語で紹介する日本』が好評重版出来

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Natsume-sha announced a reprint of its popular Japanese-English bilingual guidebook introducing Japan, Experience JAPAN.

Companies mentioned:株式会社ナツメ社、ナツメ出版企画株式会社、Amazon

Melon season is here! The largest melon fair in Lumine’s history, with 29 participating stores. Featuring premium melons from Hokota, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan’s top melon-producing region! “Hokota Melon Fair” comes to Lumine and NEWoMan in Shinjuku.

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Shinjuku Lumine and Hokota City in Ibaraki Prefecture are joining forces to hold the largest melon fair in Lumine’s history, with limited-edition products available at 29 stores.

Companies mentioned:株式会社ルミネ、ルミネ新宿、ルミネエスト新宿、ニュウマン新宿、イイトルミネ新宿

[Found in a LION beauty survey] A sign of overexertion? More than 70% may have a teeth-clenching habit!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Original獅王公司調查發現,超過七成職業女性有不自覺的「咬牙緊繃」習慣,並將其與臉部肌肉問題連結,進而推廣其口內美容器。

Companies mentioned:ライオン株式会社

[No time limit] Enjoy all-you-can-eat yakiniku without watching the clock! Coming to weekday dinner hours for a limited time!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Yakiniku all-you-can-eat restaurant じゅうじゅうカルビ is offering a limited-time, no-time-limit all-you-can-eat promotion during weekday dinner hours.

Companies mentioned:株式会社トマトアンドアソシエイツ、じゅうじゅうカルビ、すかいらーくグループ

XOP to hold “AI for Business: From Basics to Practice” workshop on May 25 (Monday)

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

XOP will hold a free online seminar on using AI in business on May 25, aimed at helping business owners put generative AI to practical use.

Companies mentioned:株式会社クロス・オペレーショングループ (XOP)、日本AI業務(Ops)活用協会【JAO】、Google

Original7年で3.9倍の成長が見込まれるビジネスマッチング市場──。圧倒的「レディクル」が語る、BtoBマーケティングの真髄とは?

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Japan’s leading business-matching service Ready Crew will hold an online seminar, sharing its B2B marketing strategy and practical insights after ranking No. 1 in market share for six consecutive years.

Companies mentioned:フロンティア株式会社、株式会社Hajimari、リクルートホールディングス、ネクスウェイ、デジタルアーツ、モビルス、カオナビ

Akamai Technologies to acquire Israel’s LayerX, strengthening its workforce security strategy with AI usage controls

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Akamai is acquiring Israeli cybersecurity company LayerX to strengthen its browser-based AI usage controls and zero-trust security strategy.

Companies mentioned:Akamai Technologies、LayerX、アカマイ・テクノロジーズ合同会社

JPYC, a Japanese yen stablecoin, adds support for Kaia testnet Kairos in its developer tool JPYC Faucet

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

JPYC Faucet, a developer tool for the Japanese yen stablecoin JPYC, now supports Kairos, the testnet of the Kaia blockchain, to accelerate developer integration and testing within the ecosystem.

Companies mentioned:JPYC株式会社

HENNGE and WithSecure form a global strategic partnership

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

HENNGE and WithSecure are expanding their strategic partnership into the U.S. market. They will begin offering a security solution with multitenant management features for MSPs in April 2026.

Companies mentioned:HENNGE株式会社、WithSecure Corporation、HENNGE Inc.、ウィズセキュア株式会社

Asilla opens a new office at “+SHIFT Nihonbashi Sakura-dori,” a newly built, fully furnished office by Sun Frontier Fudousan

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Asilla Inc. has moved into a newly built office in Nihonbashi provided by Sun Frontier Fudousan. The new location, secured through a pitch competition award, will support testing of the company’s AI products and business expansion.

Companies mentioned:サンフロンティア不動産株式会社

A popular authentic cheesecake returns with even more deliciousness in 2 flavors! “31 The Cheesecake made from Cheesecake Flavors”

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

B-R 31 Ice Cream (Baskin-Robbins) will launch a new cheesecake dessert made with two ice cream flavors: “Strawberry Cheesecake” and the newly developed “Baked Cheesecake.”

Companies mentioned:B-R サーティワン アイスクリーム株式会社

Details unveiled for the newly established Workshop Area at Recruitment Ultra Camp 2026 in Kyoto

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

One Career has announced the detailed program and speakers for the newly established Workshop Area at its major recruitment event, Recruitment Ultra Camp 2026, to be held in Kyoto.

Companies mentioned:株式会社ワンキャリア、株式会社プレイド、FiVE株式会社、株式会社TeraScale、suswork株式会社、エン・ジャパン、サイバーエージェントFX、ランサーズ、ウェルスナビ、ココナラ、hey、STORES、Speee、NTTデータグループ、クスリのアオキ、ネスレ社

Original【ゲラン】メイクアップを象徴するアイコン〈メテオリット〉シリーズに、新〈メテオリット コンパクト〉が仲間入り。

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

ゲラン will launch a new compact powder in its popular Météorites line in June 2026. The B2C product features a formula with 95% naturally derived ingredients and pore coverage.

Companies mentioned:ゲラン

JMAS’s Sekai Cart and Tenda’s TRAN-DX launch collaboration

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

JMAS’s Sekai Cart and Tenda’s TRAN-DX have teamed up to offer a solution that automates processes from BtoB order receipt through data transfer to core systems.

Companies mentioned:株式会社テンダ、株式会社ジェーエムエーシステムズ(JMAS)

New Engagement Solutions Department established, specializing in engagement

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Advantage Risk Management has established an Engagement Solutions Department to improve the effectiveness of employee engagement initiatives. It provides end-to-end support, from measurement to improvement.

AI platform for sourcing machine parts meviy expands standard sizes and compatible surface treatments for machined flat bars

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

MISUMI’s parts procurement AI platform meviy has expanded the range of standard sizes and surface treatments available for flat bars. The move will boost efficiency in manufacturing parts procurement and better address diverse needs.

Companies mentioned:株式会社ミスミグループ本社

RevComm begins airing taxi commercials for voice analytics AI MiiTel

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

RevComm has begun airing taxi commercials for its voice analytics AI, MiiTel, in Tokyo. The campaign aims to raise awareness of MiiTel RecPod and MiiTel Phone.

Companies mentioned:株式会社RevComm

KPMG Consulting to hold community beach cleanup event with Shonan Bellmare for 4th consecutive year

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

KPMGコンサルティング and 湘南ベルマーレ will hold a community beach cleanup event in Hiratsuka on May 30, 2026, for the 4th consecutive year. The event aims to protect the environment and foster awareness of the SDGs.

Companies mentioned:株式会社湘南ベルマーレ、NPO法人海さくら、INCLUSIVE HUB SHONAN

Randstad named to Dow Jones Best-in-Class World Index for 11th consecutive year, ranking No. 1 among human resources service providers

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Randstad, a major human resources services company, has been named to the ESG index DJ BIC World for the 11th consecutive year, earning the industry’s top rating.

Companies mentioned:Dow Jones、ロッテルダム経営大学院、ナイエンローデ・ビジネス大学、The Futureproofing Institute

Tomoya Hoshi, Representative Director, President and CEO of Uluru, to speak at a special session of WEB300 FORUM, a business conference bringing together executives and leaders

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Tomoya Hoshi, CEO of Uluru, will speak at the business conference WEB300 FORUM on May 19, 2026. He will discuss corporate management in the AI era with Yuichiro Tamaki and others.

Companies mentioned:国民民主党、株式会社kubell、GMOインターネットグループ、株式会社Diary、WEB300

Stockmark establishes new brand promise: “AI that makes work enjoyable”

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Stockmark has announced a new brand promise, “AI that makes work enjoyable,” to address the hollowing out of work due to AI adoption (AI fatigue) and support human creativity and deep engagement.

Companies mentioned:ストックマーク株式会社

Schedule and presentation details finalized for ProTechOne 2026, a major online event for IT engineers!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

PE-BANK will hold ProTechOne 2026, a major event for IT engineers, in the metaverse in June 2026. The schedule has been finalized, with careers and learning in the AI era as its theme.

Companies mentioned:株式会社MCEAホールディングス、株式会社ジェネラティブエージェンツ、株式会社BeeS、クラスター株式会社(cluster)

Nature tour operator FORESTON adopts TOKIUM AI Invoice Entry to reduce reliance on individuals for accounting tasks

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

FORESTON has adopted TOKIUM AI Invoice Entry to reduce reliance on individuals for accounting work. It expects AI learning to improve accuracy, cut work by 20 hours per month and allow staff to focus on core tasks.

Companies mentioned:株式会社TOKIUM、株式会社FORESTON

Accenture and Avanade work with Microsoft to develop “agentic factories” that help manufacturers reduce downtime

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Accenture, Avanade and Microsoft have announced “agentic factories,” which use AI agents to address challenges on manufacturing floors. Pilot companies are conducting validation ahead of a planned launch in the second half of 2026.

Companies mentioned:Accenture、Avanade、Microsoft、Kruger、Nissha Metallizing Solutions

Report on the LOVOT Day Trip Bus Tour in Sabae: Traditional Eyewear and Lacquerware Experiences

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

GROOVE X and Kinki Nippon Tourist held a bus tour in Sabae, Fukui Prefecture, with LOVOT companions. The tour offered a unique experience drawing on the affinity between local traditional crafts and robots.

Companies mentioned:近畿日本ツーリスト株式会社、うるしの里会館、料亭中松、割烹よしのり、めがね工房プラスジャック

SBI Insurance launches SBI Overseas Travel Insurance through Nagano Shinkin Bank, a first for a credit union

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

SBI損害保險 and 長野信用金庫 have partnered to sell overseas travel insurance on the credit union’s website, marking the first such offering through a credit union channel and expanding digital financial services for local customers.

Companies mentioned:SBI損害保険株式会社、長野信用金庫、SBIインシュアランスグループ株式会社

[Online seminar] Promote local government DX and EBPM (evidence-based policymaking) through social media post analysis! (Held June 10)

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

NTT Docomo Business X will hold an online seminar on using AI to analyze social media posts to promote local government digital transformation (DX) and evidence-based policymaking (EBPM).

Companies mentioned:NTTドコモビジネスX株式会社、NTTコム オンライン・マーケティング・ソリューション株式会社

Featuring an Odakyu “Mokoron” collaboration! Summer Food Festival marks 65th anniversary

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

小田急百貨店 Shinjuku store will hold a Summer Food Festival to mark its 65th anniversary. Offerings include limited-edition department store food hall specialties and collaboration products featuring “Mokoron.”

Companies mentioned:小田急百貨店、小田急電鉄、とんかつ まい泉、パティスリー モンシェール、両口屋是清、オンシュガー、ラ・メゾン・デュ・ショコラ、ヴィタメール、ル ビアン、ハオチャオズ、維新號、おこわ米八、RF1、ブッツサンド、献心亭 匠、ブロッサム&ブーケ、ポンパドウル

Parent-child Night Museum event to be held at the Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Museum Funeshiru!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines and Hoshino Resorts have teamed up to hold an exclusive parent-child night museum event at the Mitsui O.S.K. Lines Museum Funeshiru for guests of リゾナーレ大阪.

Companies mentioned:株式会社商船三井、星野リゾート、リゾナーレ大阪

Showcase begins proof-of-concept testing of next-generation masking technology using LLMs in its ProTech AI-OCR image analysis service

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Showcase has announced that its image analysis service ProTech AI-OCR has begun proof-of-concept testing of next-generation, high-precision data masking technology using large language models (LLMs).

Companies mentioned:株式会社ショーケース

“Where did the sweat go?” Experience it for yourself! A “super” absorbent, quick-drying undershirt with UV protection and antibacterial, deodorizing features to tackle sticky heat makes its debut on May 18!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Nissen will launch あせいづこ, a functional undershirt made with new fabric that quickly absorbs and disperses uncomfortable summer sweat, on May 18, 2026. Designed for hot weather, it offers high absorbency and quick-drying performance, as well as UV protection and antibacterial, deodorizing features.

Companies mentioned:株式会社ニッセン

Originalしゃぶしゃぶ温野菜×2.5次元タレントグループ「シクフォニ」コラボ開催 シクフォニが温野菜で“お忍びデート”がテーマ オリジナルクリアカード付き食べ放題コースや限定デジタル特典が登場

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Hot pot chain 温野菜 has teamed up with the 2.5D idol group シクフォニ for a limited-time campaign featuring a “secret date” theme, special menu sets and merchandise.

Companies mentioned:株式会社レインズインターナショナル、コロワイドグループ、しゃぶしゃぶ温野菜、シクフォニ

[Officially licensed EXPO2025 merchandise] New black Myaku-Myaku “Water-In Key Ring” launches!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Original2025年大阪・關西萬國博覽會(EXPO2025)推出官方授權新商品——黑色版吉祥物「脈脈」的「水感鑰匙圈」。

Companies mentioned:株式会社ヘソプロダクション、株式会社ヘソホールディングス

Get ready to be drenched! Two splash events: Crayon Shin-chan Summer Splash

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Crayon Shin-chan Adventure Park at Nijigen no Mori on Awaji Island will hold the summer-only water event Crayon Shin-chan Summer Splash, featuring two challenge courses of different difficulty levels.

Companies mentioned:株式会社ニジゲンノモリ、双葉社、シンエイ、テレビ朝日、ADK

A special Baby Star in eye-catching gold packaging! Baby Star Ramen (Carefully Selected Chicken Flavor), made with carefully selected ingredients, launches nationwide on May 18, 2026

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Snack maker おやつカンパニー has launched a special edition of ベビースターラーメン(こだわりチキン味) in gold packaging, made with carefully selected ingredients.

Companies mentioned:株式会社おやつカンパニー

As part of the DX Vision “Digital Fusion,” a cumulative investment of 100 billion yen: SoftBank co-hosts the “AI Agent Contest”

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Tokyu Land Corporation and SoftBank co-hosted the “AI Agent Contest” and recognized 4 outstanding AI tools, including one that supports contract review. The contest is an important part of the companywide effort to promote digital transformation.

Companies mentioned:東急不動産ホールディングス株式会社、東急不動産株式会社、ソフトバンク株式会社

Launch of a Copilot agent that enables users to search and analyze past meeting data within the dedicated app for the AI meeting-minutes service AutoMemo

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Sourcenext has launched “AutoMemo Copilot Agent,” integrated with Microsoft 365 Copilot, enabling users to search and analyze past meeting records using natural language.

Companies mentioned:ソースネクスト株式会社、Microsoft

Monthly history entertainment magazine Rekishijin moves to Shobunsha! The 第1 issue features a major special on “The Mystery of the Blank 4th Century and the Ancient Emperors”

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

The monthly history magazine 《歴史人》 has officially moved to Shobunsha. Its first issue after the move will go on sale on June 5, featuring “The Mystery of the Blank 4th Century and the Ancient Emperors.”

Companies mentioned:株式会社昭文社ホールディングス、株式会社昭文社

To express this feeling, yes, “tururorororororooo!” That’s it! Web video narrated by popular voice actor Nobuhiko Okamoto released to mark the launch of new “extra-soupy” ice cream Mamire <Caramelic Pudding>

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Morinaga & Co. has released an online ad voiced by popular voice actor Nobuhiko Okamoto to mark the launch of its new product “マミーレ<キャラメリックプディング>,” and is holding a giveaway on X.

Companies mentioned:森永製菓株式会社、ラクーンドッグ

Daiichi Jitsugyo uses contract management service “Contract One”

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Daiichi Jitsugyo has adopted Sansan’s “Contract One” to centrally manage approximately 4,400 contracts. The system has significantly improved search efficiency, strengthened risk management and accelerated sales decision-making.

Companies mentioned:第一実業株式会社、Sansan株式会社

【兵庫県 × eiicon】Startups from across Japan seeking to collaborate with manufacturing companies in the Hanshin region are now being recruited. Creating new industries by combining Hanshin’s on-the-ground capabilities with startups’ vision!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

兵庫県 and eiicon have launched a co-creation project between manufacturers in the Hanshin region and startups. They aim to create new industries by “extending” technology and are recruiting participating companies from across Japan.

Companies mentioned:株式会社eiicon、兵庫県

Washoku Sato’s “Early Summer Hokkaido Fair” starts May 21 (Thu.)!!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Washoku Sato is launching a limited-time “Early Summer Hokkaido Fair” menu from May 21, featuring special set meals and rice bowls made with a variety of ingredients from Hokkaido.

Companies mentioned:SRSホールディングス株式会社、サトフードサービス株式会社、株式会社ソラチ

Washoku Sato × film “免許返納!?”: Register as a Sato app member and visit a restaurant for a chance to win movie tickets!!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Washoku Sato has partnered with the film “免許返納!?” on a sweepstakes exclusively for app members, aiming to boost customer engagement and app use.

Companies mentioned:SRSホールディングス株式会社、サトフードサービス株式会社、アイホン株式会社、Apple Inc.、Google Inc.

【Survey of 1000 creators and photographers】Professionals prioritize “advanced features,” while creators put “intuitiveness” first! What are the “absolute criteria” for software selection that distinguish the 2 types of production professionals?

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Wondershare surveyed 1,011 creators, revealing differences in the criteria people use to choose equipment and software depending on their profession.

Companies mentioned:Adobe

Enhancing the everyday experience of enjoying Ayataka with onigiri: 5 varieties of AEON-exclusive rice balls designed to pair with “綾鷹” in “あや茶丸” packaging, on sale from May 20 (Wed.) at directly operated AEON and AEON Style stores nationwide [footnote 1]

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Coca-Cola’s “綾鷹” and AEON have teamed up to launch 五 varieties of limited-edition rice balls designed to pair with “綾鷹” tea, alongside a nationwide promotional campaign.

Companies mentioned:日本コカ・コーラ株式会社、イオンリテール株式会社、一般社団法人おにぎり協会、上林春松本店

Made possible by home appliance experts: Launch of a TV stand in a compact size that is just right for your needs!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

YAMADA Holdings has launched a new TV stand under its “y select” private label, meeting demand for a compact design that is compatible with robot vacuum cleaners.

Companies mentioned:株式会社ヤマダホールディングス、ヤマダデンキ、ベスト電器、マツヤデンキ

Make early summer meals more exciting! A lineup of visually striking, great-value set menus featuring seafood towers, beef short ribs and more! The limited-time 4-day “かっぱのトクトクメニュー” is here!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Kappa Sushi is offering its 4-day-only “かっぱのトクトクメニュー” value meal sets from May 21 to 24, featuring items such as an eye-catching “seafood tower” to spur early summer spending.

Companies mentioned:カッパ・クリエイト株式会社、株式会社コロワイド

【Exhibitor report】Approximately 2,400 visitors came to the booth! NEC showcases the latest open innovation examples at SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

NEC showcased its open innovation achievements at SusHi Tech Tokyo 2026, drawing approximately 2,400 visitors and holding in-depth discussions with startups and partners on future technologies such as AI.

Companies mentioned:日本電気株式会社 (NEC)、Anthropic Japan合同会社、MPower Partners Fund、LOOVIC株式会社、株式会社Estlaughtive

【Seminar on May 28】JR East × NEC: “What Is the Strategy for Creating New Businesses Across Economic Spheres?”

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

JR East and NEC will co-host a seminar exploring strategies for creating new businesses through collaboration across economic spheres.

Companies mentioned:日本電気株式会社 (NEC)、東日本旅客鉄道株式会社 (JR東日本)、株式会社ジェイアール東日本企画 (jeki)、PwCコンサルティング合同会社 (PwC)、株式会社POCKET RD

“やよい軒” to run a “Soy Meat Renewal Commemorative Campaign” on its official X and Instagram accounts

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Japanese set-meal chain やよい軒 is holding sweepstakes on X and Instagram to promote its revamped soy meat products.

Companies mentioned:株式会社プレナス、やよい軒

Collaboration with a hugely popular smartphone app confirmed! “Hotto Motto” × “Monster Strike”: “Freshly Made, Strike Shot! Super Hotto Motto Festival”

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Hotto Motto is holding its first collaboration with Monster Strike. The nationwide campaign will run for a limited time in June, distributing exclusive cards based on purchase amounts and holding a lottery sale of original goods.

Companies mentioned:株式会社プレナス、株式会社MIXI

Apparel and tote bags featuring Haruko, Canti and more, bringing fans into the world of FLCL! 【株式会社コスパ】

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Cospa will launch a new line of apparel and tote bags inspired by the anime FLCL.

Companies mentioned:コスパグループ株式会社、株式会社コスパ

New feature content introduces the NEWYORKER MEN CHINO PANTS COLLECTION 2026 Summer.

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Daidoh Forward has published a feature on its flagship NEWYORKER brand’s 2026 summer chino pants collection on its e-commerce site. The feature highlights timeless design and versatility to promote sales.

【A dream showdown between Toho’s “Godzilla” and Koikeya’s “Karamucho” and “Suppa Mucho”】“Godzilla VS Karamucho: The Sriracha Counterattack” and “King Ghidorah VS Suppa Mucho: Seafood Total Assault” go on sale sequentially from May 18

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Koikeya has partnered with Toho’s “Godzilla” to release collaboration products from “Karamucho” and “Suppa Mucho.” The campaign marks the 30th anniversary of Burning Godzilla’s debut and aims to attract market attention by leveraging the strength of both brands.

Companies mentioned:東宝株式会社

“SHARE LOUNGE Tokyu Stay Mercure Hiroshima” opens May 18

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

CCC and Tokyu have opened a SHARE LOUNGE inside the newly opened Tokyu Stay Mercure Hiroshima hotel in Hiroshima on May 18, creating a multipurpose space combining accommodation, work and local cultural experiences.

Companies mentioned:カルチュア・コンビニエンス・クラブ株式会社、東急リゾーツ&ステイ株式会社

【Loft】“RAINY DAYS 2026”: Make even gloomy rainy days fun with functionality and style on your side!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Loft has launched the “RAINY DAYS 2026” collection, bringing together rain gear that combines functionality and stylish design to make rainy days more enjoyable.

Companies mentioned:株式会社ロフト、ニフティカラーズ、マーナ、ムーンバット、ワールドパーティー、ビコーズ、アセント、すみだ水族館

Japan’s first [1] “sanitary napkins as workplace and school supplies project”: “職場のロリエ” and “学校のロリエ” surpass 1,000 installation sites [2]! A new initiative aiming to make this a social standard is expanding at an accelerating pace

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Kao’s Laurier sanitary napkin supply initiative, “職場のロリエ” and “学校のロリエ,” has surpassed 1,000 locations.

Companies mentioned:花王株式会社、株式会社 未来トレンド研究機構、アツギ株式会社、株式会社大林組、株式会社湖池屋、二松学舎大学付属柏中学・高等学校、国際医療福祉大学 成田キャンパス

Qualica introduces its “KOM-MICS” productivity improvement system at Star Micronics’ new plant, supporting both higher productivity and reduced environmental impact

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Qualica has introduced its “KOM-MICS” productivity improvement system at Star Micronics’ new plant. Connecting 54 machines, the system uses data to improve productivity and save energy.

Companies mentioned:TISインテックグループ、クオリカ株式会社、スター精密株式会社

【Oriental Hotel Okinawa Resort & Spa】“翠彩 Afternoon Tea,” featuring tropical fruits, and a limited-time menu inspired by the nature of Yanbaru

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Oriental Hotel Okinawa Resort & Spa is launching “翠彩 Afternoon Tea” for the 2026 summer season. The luxury dining experience is themed around Yanbaru’s natural environment and tropical fruits, aiming to stimulate tourism demand.

Companies mentioned:オリエンタルホテルズ&リゾーツ

freee launches startup financing support, offering an AI startup business plan tool and free expert reviews of business plans

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

freee has launched a startup financing support service combining AI and expert reviews to help new businesses overcome the challenges of writing business plans and secure financing.

Companies mentioned:フリー株式会社、フリー創業融資サポート株式会社、日本政策金融公庫

【OMO7旭川】Make visits to Asahiyama Zoo even more fun! A new service lets visitors customize their own “Asahiyama Zoo Backpack,” available for sale or rental starting July 1, the zoo’s opening anniversary

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

OMO7旭川, part of the Hoshino Resorts hotel group, has teamed up with Asahiyama Zoo to offer customized “Asahiyama Zoo Backpack” bags for sale and rental starting July 1, enhancing visitors’ zoo experience.

Companies mentioned:星野リゾート、OMO7旭川、旭川市旭山動物園、旭山動物園くらぶ

Amazon expands its Tokyo office and opens a new location at Azabudai Hills

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Amazon and AWS have opened a new location at Azabudai Hills, underscoring their long-term investment in and commitment to Japan. The office environment was designed to promote well-being and innovation.

Companies mentioned:アマゾンジャパン合同会社、アマゾン ウェブ サービス ジャパン合同会社

Cookie Vanilla Frappe, with the rich aroma of Madagascar vanilla, launches in limited quantities starting May 19 (Tuesday) — with richer milk flavor for an even more indulgent, full-bodied taste

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

FamilyMart will launch its Cookie Vanilla Frappe in limited quantities starting May 19, 2026. It is one of the initiatives under “Ichiban Challenge” ahead of the company’s 45th anniversary.

Companies mentioned:株式会社ファミリーマート

Kanako Momota of ももいろクローバーZ shares her stories in a new collection of first-time conversations with 15 distinguished guests, “Kono Michi o Yukeba,” on sale today, May 18

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Kanako Momota, leader of the idol group “Momoiro Clover Z,” has released her first collection of conversations, “この道をゆけば,” featuring interviews with 15 prominent figures from various fields.

Companies mentioned:株式会社朝日新聞出版、ももいろクローバーZ、氣志團、超特急、サカナクション、OKAMOTO’S

【東京ステーションホテル】The Tokyo Station Hotel’s forest: SDGs initiatives connecting to the future 100 years from now

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Tokyo Station Hotel has partnered with forest conservation organization more trees to establish “Tokyo Station Hotel Forest” in Ofunato, Iwate Prefecture, supporting recovery after the disaster in Tohoku and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals.

Companies mentioned:日本ホテル株式会社、東京ステーションホテル、一般社団法人more trees、JR東日本グループ

Mynavi releases its “April Survey of Career Intentions Among University Students Graduating in 2027: Job Hunting and Career Decisions”

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Originalマイナビの27年卒4月調査によると、内々定率は7割を超える一方、約6割が就活を継続。学生の不安増加により、内々定辞退の保留が約4割に上るなど、企業の採用活動におけるフォローアップの重要性が示された。

Reprint decided ahead of publication: “Te no Hira yori Ai o Komete,” the final short story collection by 91-year-old Takashi Atoda, to be released May 27 (Wednesday)

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

直木賞-winning author Takashi Atoda, 91, will release his final short story collection, “掌より愛をこめて,” featuring 36 stories. A reprint was decided before the book’s release.

Companies mentioned:株式会社新潮社

What is the “truth of power” observed over 60 years by the head of the Yomiuri Group, a veteran political reporter? Shinchosha Shinsho’s “The Conditions for Long-Term Government” is on sale today!

Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES

Shoichi Oikawa, chairman of the Yomiuri Shimbun Group, has published “The Conditions for Long-Term Government,” a new book examining the qualities Japanese prime ministers share that enable them to stay in office for extended periods, drawing on his 60 years as a political reporter.

Companies mentioned:株式会社新潮社、読売新聞グループ本社、読売新聞社

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