“Manaviva+” has partnered with “Kono Juku” to provide a study space!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The study space “Manaviva+,” operated by Plus AI株式会社, has partnered with the online cram school “Kono Juku,” operated by 株式会社Stardy. Starting October 1, 2026, it will offer Kono Juku students a waiver of the admission fee.
[New service] No dedicated equipment needed—just use an iPad! Launch of “Raid Scan 360,” an AI measurement and 3D avatar display service for beauty salons
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アイムビー has launched “Raid Scan 360,” an AI service for beauty salons that can measure the whole body and generate a 3D avatar using only an iPad, with no dedicated equipment required.
Nonverbal information AI “TsutaeAI”: DJ Insight raises 20 million yen from 日本政策金融公庫, bringing total funding to 50 million yen
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社DJ Insight received a 20 million yen loan from 日本政策金融公庫, bringing its total funding to 50 million yen. The company will advance research and development and business expansion for its nonverbal information AI, “TsutaeAI.”
株式会社アフロ to open its 10th location, “AFLO Honmachi,” in Osaka’s Honmachi area on October 19
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アフロ opened “AFLO Honmachi,” a full-service real estate office in Minamihonmachi, Chuo Ward, Osaka, on October 19, 2026. It is the company’s 10th location and handles property sales and rentals, property management, land acquisition, property purchasing and redevelopment, and tenant services.
Women's health: “There’s nowhere to turn for advice” in rural areas — Okayama-born “Watashi First DAY” holds its 2nd event on Dec. 6. Consult experts all in one day on kampo medicine, sleep, femcare and finances Copy
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社リクエストプラス will hold “The 2nd Watashi First DAY,” an experiential event focused on women's health, in Okayama City on Dec. 6, 2026. Around 17 consultation booths staffed by experts in kampo medicine, sleep, femcare and finances will be set up, aiming to provide opportunities to seek advice on women's health issues in rural areas.
株式会社AI Nest obtains certification under the international standard for information security management systems (ISMS), “ISO/IEC 27001”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社AI Nest obtained certification under the international standard for information security management systems (ISMS), “ISO/IEC 27001:2022,” dated Sept. 7, 2026.
[1957, Taro Okamoto and the Dice Chair] Reissue of the “Dice Chair” designed by Taro Okamoto in 1957 goes on sale again starting Oct. 23, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社グローカルスタンダードプロダクツ announced that it will again reissue and sell the rattan “Dice Chair,” designed by Taro Okamoto in 1957, starting Oct. 23, 2026.
Facts
1957
Oct. 23, 2026
360 mm per side
1953
1954
1955
1911–1996
2011
2021
69,300 yen (including tax)
Companies mentioned：株式会社グローカルスタンダードプロダクツ、GLOCAL STANDARD PRODUCTS、山川ラタン製作所、桑沢デザイン研究所、松屋銀座、国際デザインコミッティー、日本デザインコミッティー、現代芸術研究所、現代芸術の会、通商産業省、公益財団法人岡本太郎記念現代芸術振興財団、岡本太郎記念館、川崎市岡本太郎美術館
How can communities support people with aftereffects of strokes and traffic accidents? Lecture on higher brain dysfunction to be held Nov. 1
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The “Brain Trauma and Higher Brain Dysfunction Rehabilitation Seminar Kyoto Organizing Committee” will hold its 30th seminar on Nov. 1, 2026, at the Kyoto Prefectural General Social Welfare Hall Heartpia Kyoto and online. In light of the enactment of the Act on Support for People with Higher Brain Dysfunction, the seminar will consider the shape of an inclusive community.
Facts
Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026
Around 230,000 people nationwide
Enactment of the “Act on Support for People with Higher Brain Dysfunction” in April 2026
Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026, 13:00–16:00
Venue capacity: 120 people
Deadline: Oct. 26
30th Brain Trauma and Higher Brain Dysfunction Rehabilitation Seminar
[Free admission] Seminar to co-create and promote “new tourism”: “Changes in tourism and the potential of AI utilization ahead of the 2030 IR opening — Considering the future of local communities from the perspective of ‘the next Osaka’”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
大阪市商店会総連盟 and Airbnb Japan株式会社 will hold a study session on Nov. 19 to explore changes in tourism and the potential of AI utilization ahead of the 2030 IR opening.
Facts
2030 IR opening
Thursday, Nov. 19
16:00～17:30
Companies mentioned：大阪市商店会総連盟、Airbnb Japan株式会社、株式会社オズマピーアール、Airbnb Inc.
Adding preparations for rebuilding lives after an earthquake to patented ground-improvement design
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
金城重機株式会社 will begin offering its new product, “miaxis Plus,” on Oct. 19, 2026, with SBIリスタ少額短期保険株式会社’s “Earthquake Compensation Insurance Resta” included for 1 year.
The magic of the festive season, presented by VRANJES FIRENZE〈ヴラニエス フィレンツェ〉
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Dr. Vranjes JAPAN announced “Festive Collection 2026” on Oct. 19, 2026. The collection features limited-edition items and gift sets themed around an enchanted forest.
Using the estimated 260-year-old pine and cherry trees felled by heavy snow at Hirosaki Park as new local resources
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
An initiative to turn the estimated 260-year-old pine and cherry trees felled at Hirosaki Park during the heavy snowfall of Reiwa 6 into new local resources by using the wood for products such as apple boxes, tables and writing instruments, and offering them as hometown tax donation gifts.
株式会社レカルカ, 京都大学 and Gerok株式会社 launch joint research
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社レカルカ, 京都大学 and Gerok株式会社 have launched joint research. Using mesoderm-derived secretions related to the anti-aging gene “α-Klotho,” the study will conduct systematic safety and functionality evaluations based on objective indicators of age-related skin changes.
“MR. RECORDS” updates its demo ahead of Steam Next Fest; announces “Music Level Editor” for creating your own “playable records”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Wired Productions and Glee-Cheese Studio have updated the demo for the rhythm adventure “MR. RECORDS” for Steam Next Fest, adding a “Music Level Editor” feature that lets users create and share their own music levels.
Facts
More than 40 handcrafted stages
Oct. 19, 2026
Oct. 16, 2026, Japan time
Over 18 years
Companies mentioned：Wired Productions、Glee-Cheese Studio、株式会社ごぜんゲームズ、Steam、GOG、Epic Games Store、PlayStation、Xbox、Nintendo Switch 2
株式会社鳥人会, operator of “Tsugumi Nurse Care Station,” joins the Awers Group
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社あわーず, an investee of a fund managed by 日本PMIパートナーズ株式会社, acquired all shares of 株式会社鳥人会, which operates a home-visit nursing business, bringing it into the あわーず Group. This is the first group expansion for あわーず since the fund began providing support.
Facts
As of October 14, 2026
Since the fund began investing and providing support in June 2024
VAST Data announces “VAST DataEnclave,” connecting leading AI models with enterprise data on trusted infrastructure
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
On September 22, 2026, VAST Data announced “VAST DataEnclave,” built on NVIDIA Confidential Computing, saying it would provide the ability to connect sensitive data and AI models in a secure environment.
Make effective use of the space above your cage! New from Kohnan Original: “LIFELEX Cage-Top Expandable Storage Rack,” for neatly storing pet supplies that tend to make a mess
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kohnan Shoji launched the “LIFELEX Cage-Top Expandable Storage Rack,” an expandable rack that makes effective use of otherwise wasted space above a cage, in September 2026.
From fasting to everyday meals. Establishment of an in-house food factory and launch of a new food line
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社RESET established its own food factory, “RESET Retort Manufacturing Plant 1,” in Sakata, Yamagata Prefecture, in March 2026, and launched full-scale in-house production. It will roll out a new food line to support customers from fasting to everyday meals, and will begin selling 5 types of additive-free retort curry made with oats and koji through its official online store on October 20, 2026.
UA日本記録 certifies Japan’s top annual sales of automotive sunshades
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
UA日本記録, operated by Imperial Nexus株式会社, certified that 株式会社趣味職人 sold 109,081 automotive sunshades in a year, recognizing the figure as “Japan’s No. 1.”
“Charcoal,” a web-exclusive color, joins the “Range Mate Pro Square by BRUNO” lineup
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社MUK announced that reservations for “Charcoal,” a web-exclusive color of its “Range Mate Pro Square by BRUNO” microwave cookware, a collaboration with BRUNO, will open on October 19, 2026. The price is 15,400 yen including tax.
ソコテック・サーティフィケーション・ジャパン provided third-party assurance for 株式会社NTTデータ’s “C-Turtle®” series of GHG emissions visualization platforms and confirmed its coverage of Scope 3 Category 15 financed emissions.
Notice on the formation and launch of operations of a grid-scale battery storage business fund
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
RS Asset Advisors is handling asset management for a grid-scale battery storage business fund formed by SBI Smart Energy and Japan Battery, and began operations on October 1.
Facts
A total of 7 high-voltage grid-scale battery storage facilities
Commercial operations at all sites are expected to begin during fiscal 2026
独自開発 of 2 key systems: “LLMO Diagnostic Engine” and “AI Citation Dashboard,” which visualize how AI recognizes websites
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ライダース・パブリシティ developed 2 proprietary systems, the “LLMO Diagnostic Engine” and “AI Citation Dashboard,” to assess and visualize how AI recognizes a company’s website in response to the rise of generative AI search, and launched related subscription-based support services.
Facts
Capital: 440 million yen
150,000 yen per year (before tax)
150,000 yen per year (before tax; no additional fees)
Equivalent to 12,500 yen per month
All 10 items
Companies mentioned：株式会社ライダース・パブリシティ、ChatGPT、Google AI Overviews、Perplexity、一般社団法人 日本広告業協会
“Domestic MES Experts and Players Roundtable,” hosted by CCT and proposed by Yohei Abe of アビームコンサルティング—ものレボ, Smart Craft and テクノシステム join discussion on the future of Japanese manufacturing
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社コアコンセプト・テクノロジー (CCT) held a “Domestic MES Experts and Players Roundtable,” proposed by Yohei Abe of アビームコンサルティング, where key representatives from ものレボ, Smart Craft and テクノシステム discussed the future of Japanese manufacturing and the role of MES.
[Food lineup revealed] The sake event “SAKE PARK 7 Cups” will be held at Shibuya MIYASHITA PARK from Nov. 13–15. A guide for first-time attendees is also available
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The sake event “SAKE PARK 7 Cups,” hosted by 平和酒造株式会社, will be held at Shibuya MIYASHITA PARK from Nov. 13 to 15, 2026. A total of 28 sake breweries and craft sake breweries from across Japan will exhibit, with food pairings and live performances also planned.
Facts
28 sake breweries and craft sake breweries from across Japan
再春館システム signs strategic partnership with U.S. company PSPINC
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
再春館システム株式会社 has entered into a strategic partnership with U.S. company PSPINC and begun offering its “Japan-U.S. Technology Bridge Service” to Japanese companies operating in North America.
Facts
Has supported Japanese companies in the United States for about 40 years
4 locations: Tokyo (head office), Osaka, Fukuoka and Kumamoto
Celebrating the 20th anniversary of “Umadashi”! First installment: “Umadashi Taiwanese Mazesoba,” a collaboration between 麺屋こころ and やまや, makes its debut in Fukuoka! Available for a limited time at Yamaya Factory Terrace
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社やまやコミュニケーションズ is offering “Umadashi Taiwanese Mazesoba,” a limited-time collaboration with Taiwanese mazesoba restaurant 麺屋こころ, at Yamaya Factory Terrace to mark the 20th anniversary of the launch of “Umadashi.”
株式会社ファジー・アド・オフィス will open the 三鷹・井の頭ハウジングステージ, a comprehensive housing exhibition center in Mitaka, Tokyo, on Jan. 9, 2027. It will feature model homes from 8 companies, with 8 homes in total, and offer services for first-time visitors.
Beauty equipment manufacturer NBS launches CLEAR/SP-GX, its first new professional hair removal device in about 10 years
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Comprehensive beauty equipment manufacturer 株式会社NBS is launching the professional hair removal device “CLEAR/SP-GX.” Its first new model in about 10 years, it features guided and manual settings, 4 care modes and 3 irradiation surfaces, along with reduced lamp costs and an enhanced warranty system.
Newly built income-generating wooden apartment building “SOLASIA LUFRA 放出” completed
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
大和ハウスリアルエステート株式会社 has completed construction of “SOLASIA LUFRA 放出,” a newly built income-generating wooden apartment building in Joto Ward, Osaka. It has 12 units, has obtained a housing performance evaluation, and is scheduled for completion in October 2026.
Facts
12 units in total
3-story wooden building with a galvanized steel roof
From cuisine to sweets: Kyoto’s 和久傳 brings back “果柯,” its chocolate confection with Japanese pepper, which sold out during its 5-day limited run, this November
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
和久傳 in Kyoto will bring back its limited-edition confection “果柯,” combining Japanese pepper and chocolate, starting Nov. 1, 2026.
ダーマレーザーPRO appears across the Tokyo metropolitan area, including Shibuya, Shinjuku and Ikebukuro
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社クオリティファースト announced that it will launch a large-scale outdoor advertising campaign in Tokyo on Oct. 19, 2026, for ダーマレーザーPRO, the next-generation line from its skincare brand “DERMA LASER.”
[New Release] Best-selling cap gets a sports upgrade. Japan national team runner supervises BALLOT (バロット)’s first running cap
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ASTYONE’s brand “BALLOT” has launched its first running cap, supervised by Japan national team runner 楢木十士郎. The product upgrades the brand’s signature cotton cap, with cumulative sales of 540,000 units, for sports use. Features include UPF50+ protection and a lightweight design.
[Limited-time campaign starts Oct. 1] Stronger data protection with Kingston IronKey
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kingston Technology will launch a limited-time campaign on Oct. 1, giving customers who purchase eligible IronKey Locker+ 50 USB flash drives at university co-op stores a multi-cable set. The article explains hardware encryption, security certifications including FIPS 140-3 and TAA compliance, and product lines for different uses.
Facts
Starting October 1
XTS-AES 256-bit
Up to 8TB
FIPS 140-3 Level 3
Companies mentioned：Kingston Technology International Limited、Kingston Technology、Kingston Digital, Inc.、NIST、米国国立標準技術研究所
Spark Research and マーケティングアプリケーションズ enter business partnership, enabling domestic research companies using “forSurvey” to offer AI interviews as part of their own research services
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
スパークリサーチ株式会社 has begun a business partnership with 株式会社マーケティングアプリケーションズ in the field of AI interviews. This will enable domestic research companies using “forSurvey” to offer the AI interview platform “Spark Research” as part of their own research services.
Autumn-only Mont Blanc fair at タマチャンショップ Miyakonojo main store!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
An autumn-only Mont Blanc fair is underway at タマチャンショップ Miyakonojo main store, operated by 有限会社九南サービス, from Oct. 1 to Nov. 30, 2026. The menu features 3 items made with chestnuts from Miyazaki Prefecture and Beni Haruka sweet potatoes: a Mont Blanc latte, a marron Basque cheesecake and an imo-n-blanc pancake.
Obtains “Platinum Kurumin Certification” as a company supporting child-rearing
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
扶桑電通株式会社 obtained “Platinum Kurumin Certification” as a company supporting child-rearing from the Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare, effective Sept. 8, 2026.
Gomumari launches “specialized operations AI-BPO,” a service for structuring manual data
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ゴムマリ株式会社 will launch its “specialized operations AI-BPO” service on Oct. 19, 2026, structuring product instructions, maintenance manuals and other documents into formats that in-house AI can answer accurately. Starting at 300,000 yen, the service divides Word or PDF originals by item, preserves tables and figures, registers the content in an AI platform, and verifies answer accuracy.
Facts
Launching Oct. 19, 2026
Prices start at 300,000 yen
Estimated turnaround: 2 weeks
78.3% of companies with 1,001 or more employees have adopted AI
Just sprinkle it on your usual salad. “Vege Boost,” a powdered dressing containing vitamin C, dietary fiber and iron, launches
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社カネカサンスパイス will launch “Vege Boost,” a powdered dressing containing vitamin C, dietary fiber and iron, through its online shop starting Oct. 19, 2026.
Kakuichi welcomes humanoid “Miyazawa Noa” as a new graduate in a generalist role; the actual robot arrives and is unveiled to employees for the first time
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社カクイチ unboxed and unveiled the actual humanoid robot “Miyazawa Noa” at its factory on Oct. 6, 2026. The robot’s operation was checked with support from Play Robotics, and progress was reported on a project aiming to welcome it as a new graduate in a generalist role in April 2027.
Polyscape launches partnership with リヴァイ of C&Rグループ, expanding AI use tailored to the gaming and entertainment industries from individual use to organizational implementation
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Polyscape has launched a partnership with リヴァイ株式会社, a subsidiary of C&Rグループ, to support the use of generative AI tailored to the gaming and entertainment industries.
Facts
Original2,016億ドル（約30.2兆円）
Average of $50 million to $150 million
While soaring to more than $200 million
The reality is that more than 80% are using generative AI
75% reduction in game QA workload
Reducing game planning costs to 1/100, for example
Reproducing 80% of the accuracy of issue identification
End of sales for select solutions as part of solution portfolio optimization
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
扶桑電通株式会社 announced that, as part of optimizing its solution portfolio, it will end new sales of 3 solutions—Encyclo WMS, Encyclo Bistron and its drawing scanning service—as of Oct. 31, 2026, and shift to recommended successor solutions.
Launch of an AI × labor and social security attorney “co-creation partnership,” accelerating the standardization of HR and labor operations while delivering both speed and peace of mind
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社マイクロニティ, provider of the AI-powered business improvement platform “mfloow,” has launched a co-creation partnership in HR and labor services with 社会保険労務士法人東京おむろ人事サービス. As its first initiative, the partners released a “Leave of Absence and Return-to-Work Flow Template” supervised by a labor and social security attorney, aiming to standardize HR and labor operations and reduce reliance on individual expertise while combining the speed of AI with professional reliability.
Facts
Has worked in HR and labor services for a total of 30 years
Capital: 2.2 billion yen (including capital surplus)
“You should have the tooth pulled” can be a shock… but 58.4% want to “consult first”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A survey on dental visits by 株式会社smileline found that many patients would not make an immediate decision when told “You should have the tooth pulled,” and instead wanted to first discuss the treatment and alternatives.
Facts
The survey found that 58.4% would rather discuss treatment first than immediately accept having a tooth extracted.
In fact, 28.8%—the largest share—said those words would be “the most shocking” to hear.
31.4% said they would “discuss the treatment in detail on the spot”
27.0% said they would “ask whether there is a way to avoid extraction”
A survey of 500 men and women aged 30 or older nationwide found that
FGROW JAPAN株式会社 will hold a thank-you sale offering up to 10% off at its official online shop from Oct. 16 to Nov. 9, 2026, to mark the 1st anniversary of the launch of fresh shrimp kimchi from the shrimp specialty shop 海老乃家. Cumulative sales have exceeded 240,000 shrimp.
“ONE SAMURAI 4” event report: Akimoto Hiroki falls short of world title; Nadaka Yoshinari scores a KO win for his 43rd consecutive victory and earns his first bonus; Takeru’s retirement ceremony also held!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ONE Championship held “ONE SAMURAI 4” at Ariake Arena on Oct. 17, 2026. In the main event, a bantamweight kickboxing world title bout, Jonathan Haggerty defeated Akimoto Hiroki to defend his title for the 3rd time and earn a 15 million yen fight bonus. In the co-main event, an atomweight Muay Thai world title bout, Nadaka Yoshinari defeated Rifadin Masdoor by TKO to successfully defend his title for the 2nd time and earn a 15 million yen performance bonus. Masaaki Noiri also advanced from the semifinals, while Koya Abe, Ryoto Nishiyama and others earned main-roster contracts or bonuses with KO wins.
Facts
Oct. 17, 2026
3rd title defense
15 million yen fight bonus
2nd title defense
15 million yen performance bonus
84th career win
7.5 million yen performance bonus
1.5 million yen performance bonus
$100,000
Companies mentioned：ONE Championship、Group ONE Holdings、ONE Championship 株式会社、Vasileus
Finalist services selected for “Ruby biz Grand prix 2026”! 7 companies that have grown their businesses with Ruby to gather in Matsue, Shimane
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Ruby biz Grand prix Executive Committee has selected 7 finalists for “Ruby biz Grand prix 2026.” The awards ceremony will be held in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture, on Dec. 3, 2026, with a 1 million yen prize awarded to the grand prize winner.
Facts
7 finalists
19 entries
Marking its 12th edition
Dec. 3, 2026 (Thursday), from 17:00
Runner-up prize: 1 million yen
Runner-up prize: 300,000 yen
Companies mentioned：Ruby biz グランプリ実行委員会、島根県商工労働部産業振興課産業デジタル推進室、Rubyアソシエーション、STORES 株式会社、マジセミ株式会社、株式会社KMC、株式会社博報堂DYホールディングス、RIZAP株式会社、イタンジ株式会社、株式会社タイミー、株式会社ウーオ、ピクシブ株式会社、JUKI松江株式会社、株式会社Shippio、株式会社HIKKY、株式会社ヤマップ、株式会社tsumug、株式会社メディカルノート、クックパッド株式会社、GMOペパボ株式会社、株式会社コークッキング、スタディプラス株式会社、株式会社あしたのチーム、Wovn Technologies株式会社、株式会社Misoca、ラクスル株式会社、トレジャーデータ株式会社、株式会社ユビレジ
3CE and Kuromi team up for their first collaboration! All 4 products, including popular blush and lip products, arrive in limited-edition packaging featuring Kuromi in a variety of expressions
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The Seoul-based makeup brand “3CE” and 株式会社サンリオ’s popular character “Kuromi” are collaborating for the first time, with all 4 products, including blush and lip products, going on sale in limited quantities.
Meeting people in the workplace can inspire young people to think about their future. Young people from サンカクシャ take on AI role-playing at transcosmos
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
特定非営利活動法人サンカクシャ and transcosmos held workplace tours and AI-powered customer service role-playing experiences for young people, providing an opportunity to consider the working environment and their future.
株式会社４Ｘ and 株式会社Z Creative Partners are partnering to launch the “AI Reputation Program,” a tie-up advertising service designed to be read by generative AI, on CNET Japan starting October 19, 2026.
Advance reservations open: MIKIMOTO BEAUTY’s first holiday-exclusive coffret, “Mikimoto Holiday Premium Coffret,” launches November 1
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
御木本製薬株式会社 will launch MIKIMOTO BEAUTY’s first holiday-exclusive coffret, “Mikimoto Holiday Premium Coffret,” on November 1, 2026, with advance reservations opening October 19.
Training for mental health measures implementation advisers now on sale ahead of the expanded mandatory stress checks in April 2028
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Dragon connect has begun selling the “Mental Health Measures Implementation Adviser Training” offered by ヘルスパートナー株式会社. In anticipation of the expanded mandatory stress checks in April 2028, the training offers insurance agents, corporate sales staff, and human resources and general affairs personnel an opportunity to acquire systematic knowledge.
Facts
From April 1, 2028
Workplaces with fewer than 50 employees
Additional cost: ¥9.25 million
An employee with an annual income of ¥6 million
The figure was the highest, at 65.3%
About 14 hours
12 chapters in total
The subsidy rate for small and medium-sized enterprises is 75%
Original1人1訓練15万円が上限です
For businesses other than small and medium-sized enterprises, the rate is 60%
The limit is ¥100,000 per person per training course
Launching October 15: A nutritious snack of small fish that can be eaten whole, bones and all. The refreshing taste of apple cider vinegar makes it easy for children and adults to enjoy!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社オーガランド will launch “Paku Yawa Small Fish—Apple Cider Vinegar Flavor,” a snack made with Seto Inland Sea sardines that can be eaten whole, bones and all, on October 15. It costs ¥1,000 including tax, comes in a 42g package, and will be sold at だし割烹香煙 on Rakuten Market.
Ocean begins data integration with Sharp POS system “RETAILACE21”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Ocean has begun integrating data between シャープマーケティングジャパン’s POS system “RETAILACE21” and its own refund-based tax-free platform, “Ocean Tax Refund,” to support a smooth transition to the new tax-free shopping system in November 2026.
株式会社Wanderlust to speak at “Manufacturing Industry Summit 2026 Autumn”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Wanderlust will speak at “Manufacturing Industry AI Summit 2026 Autumn,” hosted by 株式会社アイスマイリー, on October 23, 2026. CEO and Representative Director Hibiki Nishikawa will discuss how to identify challenges in adopting AI in manufacturing.
Facts
Oct. 23, 2026
More than 100 development and verification projects
58.5% say correspondence high schools are “schools they actively choose to learn in their own way” — Survey on learning in one’s own way — <Premacied>
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社プレマシード surveyed 400 people aged 15–22 about learning in their own way. Some 58.5% viewed correspondence high schools as “schools they actively choose to learn in their own way,” exceeding the 43.0% who saw them as “schools they choose because they have no other option.” Satisfaction with inquiry-based learning stood at 54.1%, indicating strong demand for learning based on students’ interests and strengths.
Making its terrestrial TV debut: Chinese romantic period drama “安寧録～海棠に降る光～” set to air! A poignant yet beautiful tale of love and destiny featuring a star-studded cast
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社TVQ九州放送 will begin the first terrestrial TV broadcast of the Chinese drama “安寧録～海棠に降る光～” on October 26, 2026.
Facts
Begins Monday, October 26, 2026!
40 episodes in total
Companies mentioned：株式会社TVQ九州放送、テレQ、Croton Entertainment Co. Ltd.
Put the wisdom of 15 professionals to work solving management challenges. New book “15 Professionals Who Solve Management Challenges” goes on sale starting October 30
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ダブルエム announced that its new book, “15 Professionals Who Solve Management Challenges,” which compiles insights from 15 business leaders and experts, will be published by 株式会社セルバ出版 starting October 30, 2026. A conference will also be held on November 16 to mark the publication.
Facts
Oct. 30, 2026
List price: ¥1,870 (tax included / base price ¥1,700)
DUMSCO to attend the 64th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society of Cancer Therapy, exhibit cancer patient support app Hakarte and unveil demo of new service Hakarte Cloud for the first time
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社DUMSCO will attend the 64th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society of Cancer Therapy, to be held at Kobe Convention Center from October 22 to 24, 2026, where it will exhibit its cancer patient support app Hakarte and unveil a demo of its new service, Hakarte Cloud, for the first time.
DroR to hold free online study session for business owners and HR leaders on November 5; second session to focus on how to investigate the causes of employee turnover
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社DroR will hold the second session of its free online study series, “DroR Lab Study Sessions,” for business owners and HR leaders on November 5, 2026. The theme is how to investigate the causes of employee turnover, and the speaker will be CEO Makoto Yamanaka.
2026 Christmas feature: Vegan and gluten-free Christmas cakes! Plant-based food retailer Green Culture taking nationwide delivery orders, with a selection of plant-based prepared dishes
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
グリーンカルチャー株式会社 has begun selling vegan and gluten-free Christmas cakes and plant-based prepared dishes, offering early-bird reservations through November 9 and campaigns including 5% off.
URALAA enters business partnership with みずほ銀行 to promote entertainment-sector ventures, aiming to create a market for experiential entertainment
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
URALAA株式会社 has formed a business partnership with みずほ銀行 and received an investment from Blue Lab Fund, bringing its cumulative funding to 250 million yen. The company aims to create a market for experiential entertainment.
Facts
Funding (210 million yen)
Cumulative funding totals 250 million yen
Received an additional investment of 40 million yen
“Sea fishing pond” returns to Hamamatsu Auto Racecourse! “Let’s fish for sea fish at Hamamatsu Auto! Sea Fish RUSH at the auto racetrack!” to be held November 3 (Tuesday, national holiday)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
オッズ・パーク株式会社 will hold “Let’s Fish for Sea Fish! Sea Fish RUSH at the Auto Racetrack!” at Hamamatsu Auto Racecourse on November 3, 2026.
Webinar on November 5, 2026 (Thursday): How to build an HR and labor management system that can adapt to change
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ペイロール will hold a webinar on HR and labor management systems at large companies on November 5, 2026. Together with 法律事務所ZeLo, the webinar will discuss ways to address structural fatigue, respond to legal amendments and make use of outsourcing.
Shibuya Halloween Night Fest 2026, where visitors can tour clubs and bars with a wristband, to run from October 23 to 31
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社MK.creators, operator of イベントサーチ, announced that Shibuya Halloween Night Fest 2026, organized by 渋谷ハロウィンナイトフェス実行委員会, will run from October 23 to 31, 2026. Visitors can tour participating venues with a wristband, with check-in at LUXURY LOUNGE MILAS 渋谷.
Facts
2026
Oct. 23
31st
19:00
Under 20 years old
Companies mentioned：株式会社MK.creators、イベントサーチ、渋谷ハロウィンナイトフェス実行委員会、LUXURY LOUNGE MILAS 渋谷、SHIBUYA DJ BAR LITTS、BRAND SHIBUYA、OAK BAR SHIBUYA、or（ミヤシタパーク）
Care for the scalp, not just the hair: BIOteA launches shampoo and conditioner
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社and US will launch shampoo and conditioner on October 21, 2026, under BIOteA, a hair care brand that treats the scalp and hair as an integrated whole.
Latest print volumes of popular titles from the isekai fantasy label comicスピラ to be released all at once on Monday, October 19! Bookstore purchase bonuses and digital bookstore fair also planned
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ファンギルド will release the latest print volumes of popular titles from its isekai fantasy label comicスピラ on October 19 and hold a bookstore purchase bonus promotion and digital bookstore fair.
かんぽ生命 adopts VideoTouch’s “AI Monitoring” for its call center
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
VideoTouch株式会社 began full-scale deployment of its “AI Monitoring” system, which automatically analyzes and evaluates telephone interactions, at the call center of かんぽ生命 on October 19, 2026.
Online seminar on meal subsidy adoption cases to be held November 11 (Wednesday): 3 adopting companies explain why they chose meal subsidies and the value they bring
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社miive will hold an online seminar on November 11, 2026, showcasing examples of meal subsidy programs. Three companies—株式会社ロココ, 河村電器産業株式会社 and 東京材料株式会社—will share the background to and effects of implementing meal subsidy programs using miive services.
Confirmed: Japan’s largest board game championship, the 2027 Catan Japan Championship
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ジーピー announced that the Catan Japan Championship will be held at 8 venues nationwide starting in April 2027. The event will be held over 2 days for the first time, with a beginner tournament also taking place on the first day.
株式会社明光キャリアパートナーズ wins Reiwa 8 Shimane Prefecture contract for online Japanese-language learning support for foreign workers
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社明光キャリアパートナーズ has been contracted by 島根県中小企業団体中央会 to provide online Japanese-language learning support for foreign workers under the Reiwa 8 program, and will supply its e-learning system, Japany.
Facts
Regular price: 9,900 yen per person
Offered at 4,950 yen per person
A wealth of more than 1,700 videos
The interface (operation screen) is available in 12 languages
Free webinar on November 10: Latest trends and countermeasures companies need to know as phishing damage grows
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Announcement of a free webinar to be held by 株式会社ACSiON on November 10, 2026. The webinar will explain the growing trend of phishing scams and measures companies can take.
オティコン・メディカル adopts Aras Innovator for scalable digital product platform
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Aras announced that オティコン・メディカル has adopted Aras Innovator as its PLM solution. The adoption will help the company meet medical device regulatory requirements and strengthen product information management.
Explore the world of Japanese paintings collected by Nobel laureate Dr. Satoshi Omura: “Kazuko Gokura Exhibition” opens October 24 in 韮崎市, Yamanashi Prefecture
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The exhibition “The Omura Collection: 10 Years Since Her Passing—Kazuko Gokura: Fragrance of Plum Blossoms,” featuring works by Japanese painter 郷倉和子 collected by Nobel laureate Dr. Satoshi Omura, opens on October 24, 2026, at 韮崎大村美術館 in 韮崎市, Yamanashi Prefecture.
Facts
Oct. 24, 2026
Feb. 7, 2027
General admission ¥500
200 yen for elementary, junior high and high school students
【Jiffcy Ranking】Top 10 celebrities Gen Z thinks are most likely to fall asleep first during a phone call
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The text-calling app Jiffcy, provided by 株式会社Jiffcy, surveyed Gen Z about the “TOP 10 celebrities most likely to fall asleep first during a sleep call” and announced the results in a ranking.
[Accelerating AX at Market Research Firms] Marketing Applications and スパークリサーチ Launch Business Partnership in AI Interviewing
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社マーケティングアプリケーションズ and スパークリサーチ株式会社 have launched a business partnership in AI interviewing. All companies using MApps’ “forSurvey” will be able to use スパークリサーチ’s AI interview platform.
Facts
It is the de facto standard tool for domestic market research companies. As online research software for professionals that can meet complex research needs, it supports operational efficiency and digital transformation at research firms. ■ About “Spark Research” “Spark Research” (URL: https://sparkresearch.jp/) is an AI interview platform that substantially changes conventional approaches to market research and user research. AI autonomously moderates user interviews with human panelists, gathering large volumes of qualitative user needs and insight data in a short period. It provides an end-to-end service, from research design and distribution to recording and transcribing all responses and preparing reports with analysis AI agents. ■ Comments from the representatives of both companies 株式会社マーケティングアプリケーションズ President and CEO Tsukasa Takenaka We are very pleased to announce this business partnership with スパークリサーチ. Through forSurvey, we have supported research firms in their digital transformation and adoption of AI. We believe AI interviewing is a new research method that crosses the boundary between qualitative and quantitative research and greatly expands the value research firms can provide. Our partnership with スパークリサーチ, which aims to build new forms of research for the AI era, will further accelerate these efforts. スパークリサーチ株式会社 President and CEO Ren Yanagisawa We are very pleased to announce this business partnership with Marketing Applications. Our goal is to make generative AI innovations accessible to everyone, freeing all those involved in research from cumbersome tasks so they can focus on creating essential value in product development and marketing. Through this partnership, we will work with “forSurvey,” already used by many research firms in Japan, to realize new approaches to research using AI. ■ Outlook The two companies will continue to deepen their service integration and develop new research solutions combining quantitative research and AI interviews. By supporting AX transformation at research firms, they will contribute to the development of the marketing research industry as a whole. ■ Company profiles 株式会社マーケティングアプリケーションズ Address: 16th Floor, Link Square Shinjuku, 5-27-5 Sendagaya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo President and CEO: Tsukasa Takenaka Established: May 26, 2022 Capital: 100 million yen Business: Marketing research platforms, data management tools/software, and system solutions URL: https://mkt-apps.com/ スパークリサーチ株式会社 Address: 3F, THE HUB Aoyama WEST, 1-1-3 Shibuya, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo President and CEO: Ren Yanagisawa Established: September 2019 Capital: 38 million yen Business: Operating the AI interview platform “Spark Research” URL: https://corp.sparkresearch.jp/ ■ Inquiries about this matter 株式会社マーケティングアプリケーションズ Corporate Communications Team EMAIL: info@mkt-apps.com
Qualitative research involving dozens to hundreds of people, which was difficult with conventional in-depth interviews (response data can also be used to identify quantitative trends)
Cohesity appoints Matthew Johnston as senior director of partner sales for Asia Pacific and Japan (APJ)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Cohesity has appointed Matthew Johnston as senior director of partner sales for the APJ region, where he will drive the growth of the business and strengthen its partner ecosystem.
Hiroyuki Ishiwata of the certified nonprofit organization 認定NPO法人SET spoke at the “Relationship Population Forum in Hokkaido and Tohoku Block,” hosted by 内閣府, and presented 3 functions for connecting people with ties to a region with roles as local community supporters, drawing on 15 years of experience welcoming around 200 young people to the region annually. Participants also exchanged views on the hometown resident registration system, which is scheduled for full implementation in fiscal 2027.
[Survey of 484 current students] 83% have a dream for the future but are “anxious about working”! Gen Z values “fulfillment and good relationships” over “stability” in a company
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A survey of 484 students conducted through the “Student Discount” app operated by 株式会社パレンテ found that 83% of students with dreams for the future are anxious about working, and that they prioritize “fulfillment” and “good relationships” over “stability” when choosing a company.
Helping companies manage assets in preparation for the “2026 logistics problem.” Nippon Purple to launch features for viewing fees and histories in its business storage service “ストックマモル” on October 14, 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社日本パープル announced improvements to the My Page features of its business storage service “ストックマモル,” launching fee-filtered searches and expanded CSV fields on October 14, 2026. The changes aim to address the “2026 logistics problem” and improve asset management efficiency.
Facts
The revised Logistics Efficiency Act came into force in April 2026
93.00% of dog owners say they are “glad they got a dog” | Survey on the benefits and challenges of owning a dog, including owners’ positive experiences [コノコトトモニ]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
コノコトトモニ, operated by 株式会社ゆずず, released the results of a survey on the benefits and challenges of owning a dog. A total of 93.00% of owners said they were “glad they got a dog,” citing comfort and more family conversations, while others reported challenges such as walks, expenses and restrictions on going out.
Tax-free system “PIE VAT” integrates with “RECORE,” a cloud-based core system for the retail and resale industries
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Pie Systems Japan has launched an integration between “PIE VAT,” a tax-free shopping service for visitors to Japan, and “RECORE,” a cloud-based core system for the retail and reuse industries. The integration supports early adoption of the new “refund method” tax-free system set to take effect in November 2026, as well as operational efficiency; participating stores can use it at no additional cost.
Facts
Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026
Japan’s longest operating track record: 5 years
Travelers worldwide: more than 3 million cumulatively
More than 500 companies have adopted the system
More than 1,800 stores nationwide have adopted the system
Companies mentioned：株式会社Pie Systems Japan、Pie Systems Inc.、株式会社RECORE
[日本蓄電池株式会社] Announces Formation and Launch of Operations of a Grid-Scale Battery Storage Fund
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
日本蓄電池株式会社 and SBIスマートエナジー株式会社 jointly formed a grid-scale battery storage fund and began operations on October 1. The fund covers 7 high-voltage grid-scale battery storage facilities nationwide, with commercial operations expected to begin at all sites during fiscal 2026.