Survey of prices for outsourced data entry: Of the 52 companies accepting data entry work that listed prices on their websites and appeared on comparison sites, 27 published their rates
AVerMedia launches the ultra-compact edge AI device “D137 Lynx,” compatible with NVIDIA® Jetson Orin™ NX/Nano and optimized for drone installation
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
アバーメディア・テクノロジーズ launched “D137 Lynx,” an ultra-compact edge AI device compatible with NVIDIA Jetson Orin NX/Nano and optimized for installation on drones, on Oct. 28, 2026. It measures 90×56 mm, weighs about 80 g and is scheduled to begin shipping in late November.
【HARUNE solo exhibition “MASHUP”】To be held in Obuse. HARUNE’s art mix brings tradition and modernity, Hokusai’s world and Heisei culture together / Hokusai-kan Garari Showcase
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Illustrator HARUNE’s solo exhibition “MASHUP” will be held in Obuse, featuring homages inspired by works by Katsushika Hokusai and 10 new analog works incorporating Heisei-era culture.
EC fulfillment system “LOGILESS” surpasses 1.1 million cumulative shipments through TikTok Shop integration; more than 250 shops connected
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ロジレス, provider of the EC fulfillment system “LOGILESS,” announced that cumulative shipments through its API integration with TikTok Shop have surpassed 1.1 million and that the number of connected shops has reached more than 250.
《First arrival in Japan》PLAZA exclusive, limited winter release ◆ Looks like fried chicken, but it’s chocolate?! Introducing “Chocochicky,” an astonishing new kind of sweet that will make you look twice
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
キタノ商事株式会社 will launch “Chocochicky,” a fried-chicken-shaped chocolate from the Turkish chocolate brand〈エリート〉, exclusively at PLAZA in limited quantities for winter, starting Oct. 28, 2026.
“Cybersecurity Companies in Manufacturing: Chaos Map” expanded edition released free of charge, listing 100 companies specializing in cybersecurity for factories and production equipment - 株式会社Lister
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Lister has released a free expanded version 2.0 of its “Manufacturing Cybersecurity Companies Chaos Map,” listing 100 companies related to cybersecurity for manufacturing plants and production equipment.
GeekOut supports digital fashion talent development at 文化服装学院 for the 3rd consecutive year; 3rd term of the Virtual Fashion Course launches
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
GeekOut株式会社 is supporting the 3rd term of 文化服装学院’s digital fashion talent development program, the “Virtual Fashion Course” (launching in October 2026), providing education using Roblox and developing creators.
Report on the UNITED VARS APJ Summit 2026 in Tokyo
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
クレスコ・イー・ソリューション株式会社 held the UNITED VARS APJ Summit 2026 in Tokyo over 3 days, from October 20 to 22, 2026. The summit featured keynote speeches by SAPジャパン and コンカー and presentations on the latest technologies, with クレスコ・イー・ソリューション and アイ・ピー・エス handling the event operations.
Facts
October 20 to 22, 2026
More than 70 companies worldwide
Track record of adoption by more than 180 companies
Since its founding in 1997
Since its founding in 1998
More than 100 SAP-certified consultants
Companies mentioned：クレスコ・イー・ソリューション株式会社、UNITED VARS、SAP、株式会社アイ・ピー・エス、SAPジャパン、コンカー、SAP SE
[サン・クロレラ × 京都女子大学] Industry-academia collaboration project! Limited-edition “Kyoto vegetables × chlorella” menu and hands-on event to be held on November 5!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社サン・クロレラ and 京都女子大学 will collaborate on a limited-edition “Kyoto vegetables × chlorella” menu and a health experience event on November 5.
No-code business app creation tool “@pocket” wins “Leader” in 2 categories for the 2nd consecutive term at the ITreview Grid Award
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アイアットOEC’s no-code business app creation tool “@pocket” won the top “Leader” ranking in 2 categories, “No-code Web Database” and “Collaboration Tools,” at the ITreview Grid Award 2026 Fall, and also received “High Performer” in the “Low-code Development Tools” category. It has now won awards in all 3 categories for the 2nd consecutive term.
AI delivers no results through “adoption” alone [secondz AI Utilization Report Vol.1]
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
secondz digital株式会社 has released “secondz AI Utilization Report Vol.1,” noting, based on survey data from 総務省, IPA, and PwC Japan, that while the use of generative AI is spreading, few companies are achieving results such as increased sales. It says companies seeing results have integrated AI into business processes and established in-house operational systems. As an example of its support, the report describes a jointly developed sales-document automation system with アサヒ飲料株式会社 that freed up approximately 90 hours per month.
Facts
86.4% of Japanese companies use generative AI in at least 1 business operation
A sharp increase from 55.2% in the previous fiscal year
United States (90.9%)
Germany (91.6%)
91.6% of companies cited “improved or accelerated operations”
3.9% cited “increased sales or profits”
9% of Japanese companies said results “greatly exceeded expectations”
United States: 38%
United Kingdom: 32%
An average of 46% of proofs of concept (PoCs) were discontinued before reaching production
Japan: 27.0%
United States: 1.4%
Japan: 24.5%
United States: 57.2%
China: 73.0%
Japan: 39.9%
United States: 62.7%
China: 71.7%
Created approximately 90 hours of “thinking time” per month
Companies mentioned：secondz digital株式会社、総務省、IPA、独立行政法人情報処理推進機構、PwC Japan、S&P Global Market Intelligence、アサヒ飲料株式会社
Kirin Gogo no Kocha’s new “Gogo no Kocha TEA LATTE” series is performing strongly nationwide! The authentic tea latte series is rich yet has a “clean finish”; more than 10 million bottles sold in the first 2 days after launch※1!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kirin Beverage’s “Gogo no Kocha TEA LATTE” series has sold more than 10 million bottles in the first 2 days after launch and is performing strongly.
Facts
More than 10 million bottles sold in the first 2 days after launch
Sales reached 15 million bottles on the 15th day after launch
Achieved approximately 1.5 times the monthly sales target for the first month after launch
The 2025 milk tea market was at 107% of its 2022 level
[Free online seminar] Maximize take-home pay for business owners and employees! A practical asset-protection strategy combining 4 public programs: the Small Business Mutual Aid, the Business Safety Mutual Aid, special workers’ compensation coverage, and corporate DC plans
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社日本企業型確定拠出年金センター, a group company of 社会保険労務士法人とうかい, will hold a free online seminar for small and medium-sized business owners and executives. Against a backdrop of rising prices and labor shortages, it will explain an asset-protection strategy for maximizing take-home pay for business owners and employees by using 4 public programs: the Small Business Mutual Aid, the Business Safety Mutual Aid, special workers’ compensation coverage, and corporate DC plans.
[ラベイユ] New store to open at Yokohama Landmark Tower on November 19 (Thursday)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
L'ABEILLE株式会社 will open its specialty honey store “ラベイユ ランドマークプラザ” inside Yokohama Landmark Tower on November 19, 2026. It will offer more than 80 varieties of honey from 12 countries, along with store-exclusive and seasonal products.
[Habitone Self-Care White Paper 2026] Habitone surpasses 100,000 cumulative downloads! The realities of sleep and self-care revealed by data from 100,000 users
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社DUMSCO announced that cumulative downloads of its self-conditioning app “Habitone” have surpassed 100,000. According to the company’s “Habitone Self-Care White Paper 2026,” users sleep an average of 7 hours and 1 minute; people in their 50s make up the largest age group, and women account for approximately 70%.
Facts
Surpasses 100,000 cumulative downloads
“ストレススキャン,” which has surpassed 3 million cumulative downloads
Users averaged 7 hours and 1 minute of sleep
People in their 50s were the largest group at 23.7%
SOXAI representative Tatsuhiko Watanabe delivers a special lecture at the 25th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society of Vascular Flow
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Tatsuhiko Watanabe, representative of 株式会社SOXAI, gave a special lecture at the 25th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society for Vascular Blood Flow, held on October 24, 2026, introducing continuous vital-sign monitoring technology using the domestically developed SOXAI RING wearable ring and its potential applications in pre-disease research.
Former local government employee to share insider-only tips on navigating local governments at a study session in Shinjuku on Friday, Nov. 20!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kazuki Hayashi of 株式会社LOCUS BRiDGE will appear as a guest lecturer at a study session on navigating local governments in Shinjuku on November 20, 2026, explaining local government decision-making, contracting rules, and corporate hometown tax donations.
Originalエシロール® ステレスト® 米国のニュース誌『TIME』の「Best Inventions of 2026（2026年の優れた発明品）」に選出
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ニコン・エシロール announced that Essilor® Stellest®, which it sells in Japan, was selected in the “Health & Wellness” category of TIME magazine’s “Best Inventions of 2026.”
Facts
300 inventions selected from around the world
100 special selections
1,021 tiny lenslets inside the lens
An estimated 5 billion people are projected to become nearsighted
[Colantotte advisory contract] Special event with professional golfer Hikaru Yoshimoto at 大阪タカシマヤ店
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Colantotte will hold a talk session with professional golfer Hikaru Yoshimoto, with whom it has an advisory contract, at the Rose Patio on the 5th floor of 大阪タカシマヤ店 on December 18, 2026.
Facts
9,900 yen or more, tax included
30 people in total, on a first-come, first-served basis
Fukuoka Institute of Technology and 熊本大学 join forces to develop next-generation semiconductor talent through comprehensive partnership agreement
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
福岡工業大学 and 熊本大学 signed a comprehensive partnership agreement on October 16, Reiwa 7, to develop the next generation of highly specialized professionals who will support the sustainable growth of the semiconductor industry in Kyushu.
Agatha, a cloud-based document management system for clinical trials and clinical research, surpasses 90,000 global users
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The global user base of アガサ株式会社’s cloud-based document management system for clinical trials and clinical research, Agatha, has surpassed 90,000. In response to government efforts to strengthen drug discovery and promote digital transformation, the efficiency gains from digitization have also been demonstrated in academic research. Case studies at Saga-Ken Medical Centre Koseikan and 福岡市立こども病院, among others, have confirmed reductions in storage space and costs. Going forward, the company aims to advance clinical trial digital transformation in anticipation of supporting international joint trials and using AI.
Facts
Global users surpass 90,000
Announced by 厚生労働省 in June 2025
In the journal of 日本臨床試験学会 in July 2026
Survey results from 2023 and 2024
At 95 facilities that adopted digitization
“Reduced storage space” (93.7%)
“Easier document searches” (51.6%)
“Reduced working hours” (41.1%)
Up to 13 boxes of clinical trial-related documents
Premier Group opens applications for the 2nd “Car Premier NEXT GENERATIONS CAMP 26-27,” a junior golfer development program supervised by professional golfer Michiko Hattori
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
プレミアグループ株式会社 has opened applications for the 2nd session of “Car Premier NEXT GENERATIONS CAMP 26-27,” a junior golfer development program supervised by professional golfer Michiko Hattori.
Facts
From October 16, 2026
January 9, 2027 (Saturday)
1,827 million yen
Companies mentioned：プレミアグループ株式会社、公益財団法人日本ゴルフ協会、JGA、株式会社One For One
Sonos opens preorders for new Sonos Ace Ultra headphones
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Sonos opened preorders on October 16 for the premium over-ear headphones Sonos Ace Ultra, featuring a custom-designed 40 mm driver and Adaptive ANC. The product will go on sale on October 30, 2026, at a suggested retail price of 69,800 yen, including tax.
Facts
40 mm driver
10 microphones
Up to 35 hours
Friday, Oct. 30, 2026
Friday, October 16, 2026
69,800 yen (tax included)
More than 60 countries worldwide
More than 17 million households
Companies mentioned：Sonos、株式会社infinity、Current Global
Sonos will release 2 Japan-exclusive colors for its Era 100 smart speaker, Titanium and Rose Gold, in limited quantities. Preorders open on October 23, 2026, with the release scheduled for October 30. The price is 39,800 yen each, including tax.
Facts
2 colors
Oct. 23, 2026
October 30
39,800 yen
Companies mentioned：Sonos、株式会社infinity、Current Global
Supervised by top-level “Barista Maestro”: New “Takumi Barista Espresso Machine (CM-D495B)” brings the taste of Italy to your home
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ツインバード plans to release the fully automatic espresso and latte machine “Takumi Barista Espresso Machine (CM-D495B),” supervised by Barista Maestro Chihiro Yokoyama, on December 9, 2026. Advance sales will begin on Makuake on November 12.
Facts
Scheduled for release on December 9, 2026
Advance sales begin on Makuake on November 12
Slim design with an industry-leading width of 18.5 cm*
High-pressure extraction using a pump with up to 19 atmospheres brings out the beans’ aroma and richness
Attracting about 1.1 million people in 10 days: “Giving Campaign 2026,” a 10-day fundraising event for students across Japan, concludes successfully
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Giving Campaign 2026,” a fundraising event for students organized by 株式会社Alumnote, concluded after 10 days, attracting about 1.1 million people and raising about 160 million yen in donations.
STANDAGE and DCP begin joint study of integrated trade and payment platform for commercial launch in FY2028
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
STANDAGE, DCP, and 商工中金 have begun a joint study of an integrated trade and payment platform linking eB/L with the tokenized deposit “DCJPY,” with the goal of commercial launch in FY2028.
Taste the “phantom deep-sea fish” off Joetsu and Nadachi! “Phantom Fish Fair” to be held at 道の駅うみてらす名立!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A Phantom Fish Fair will be held from November 1 to 30, 2026, at 道の駅うみてらす名立, operated by Yume Kikaku Nadachi, a member of the 互恵株式会社 group. The fair will offer dishes made with phantom fish, including tempura, dried fish and ramen, and sell fresh fish, processed products and original merchandise.
<2026 Fixed-Point Survey of Homebuilders> Initiatives for Existing Customers: 47.1% Share for Return-Visit Promotion and Alumni Events
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
According to a July 2026 fixed-point survey of homebuilders conducted by 株式会社ビズ・クリエイション, the share selecting “return-visit promotion campaigns” and “events for former customers” among initiatives for existing customers rose from 35.8% to 47.1%, while the emphasis on individual sales outreach declined.
DroR releases checklist for confirming work-interval rules; determine how to handle rest periods that extend into the next day’s start time for each pattern
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
On October 28, 株式会社DroR released a free checklist (PDF) to help companies set internal rules for cases in which a rest period under a work-interval system extends into the next day’s start time.
[November 7 and 8] Try 5 urban sports for free at LaLaport Numazu! Skateboard competition also to be held on the 8th
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The free urban sports experience event “Cross Sports Park in LaLaport Numazu,” hosted by 株式会社MoveX, will be held on November 7 and 8, 2026, featuring experiences in 5 sports and a skateboard competition.
Entertainment industry’s top fortune teller “Getters Iida” to hold lucky-fortune talk show in Nirasaki City on December 5, 2026!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A lucky-fortune talk show by entertainment industry fortune teller “Getters Iida” will be held on December 5, 2026, at 東京エレクトロン韮崎文化ホール in Nirasaki, Yamanashi Prefecture. General ticket sales begin September 5.
Grid-connected low-voltage solar power plant with battery storage and super-overloading begins operation
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社サンヴィレッジ announced that its low-voltage solar power plant with battery storage and super-overloading has been connected to the grid and begun operations.
Facts
163.2 kW (DC)
49.9 kW (AC)
253.3 kWh battery
Annual power generation (estimated): approximately 223,000 kWh
“Meiji Milk Chocolate 100th Anniversary Exhibition” to be held! Advertisements and packaging from each era come together at Tokyo International Forum. Looking back on a history shared with Japanese consumers—and toward the next 100 years
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社明治 will hold a limited-time exhibition at Tokyo International Forum starting December 23, 2026, to mark the 100th anniversary of “Meiji Milk Chocolate,” first released in 1926.
[MERCER bis] Reservations open for 2026 Christmas limited-edition chiffon cakes!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
MERCER bis, a chiffon cake specialty shop operated by MERCER OFFICE株式会社, will begin taking reservations on October 28 for 2 types of 2026 Christmas limited-edition chiffon cakes: Fresh Caramel Xmas and Strawberry and Tea Xmas.
Kyoto University of Foreign Studies, POLA, Kyoto Prefectural Police and Kyoto City join forces! Women’s safety awareness event to be held at a university festival booth
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Kyoto University of Foreign Studies, in partnership with POLA, Kyoto Prefectural Police and Kyoto City, will hold an experiential public awareness event on women’s safety measures at its university festival, Gaidaisei, on November 4, 2026.
[Featuring Daichi Hiroki] How will engineers’ work change in the AI era? Free event on “The polarization of engineers” to be held on Saturday, November 21
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社テックビズ will host a free event on “The polarization of engineers in the AI era” on November 21, 2026, with Daichi Hiroki as a guest.
株式会社アベストコーポレーション launched its new “Half-Inclusive” concept at ホテルアベスト札幌 on October 15, 2026. The concept adapts the all-inclusive model for an urban hotel and includes 5 services: a lounge before check-in and after checkout, 24-hour free drinks, happy hour, a night market and morning drinks.
Facts
From Thursday, October 15, 2026
5 services
Announced by 阪急交通社 in September 2026
Operates 21 hotels nationwide
Number of guest rooms: 306
Companies mentioned：株式会社アベストコーポレーション、ホテルアベスト札幌、阪急交通社、Buffet Dining The HARBOR SAPPORO、ミキハウス子育て総研、認定NPO法人全国こども食堂支援センター・むすびえ
[Influenza outlook from this year through next] An early start and gradual spread: a “slow-burn” pattern. A different strain could cause another outbreak after the new year. クリニックフォア explains vaccination, how to seek care and preventive medication in detail
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
クリニックフォア analyzes that influenza in the 2026/27 season will begin spreading in a “slow-burn” pattern, with the possibility of another outbreak caused by a different strain after the new year. It explains countermeasures including vaccination and online consultations.
Facts
Reports per sentinel site: 9.08
3,000–3,900 yen (tax included) with app booking
Japanese-language medical certificate: 5,500 yen
Vaccinations now available at 22 clinics nationwide
[Survey report] “Action rate” after seeing a train advertisement recalled without prompting is 60%
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社オリコム surveyed the rate of related actions after people recalled train advertisements without prompting and found an overall rate of 60%. The action rate tended to be higher among people aged 15–29 in the Tokyo metropolitan area and among men in the Kansai region.
Facts
Overall action rate: 60%
Survey respondents: 1,000
All 907 cases that could be tallied by specific advertiser or brand
Autumn has arrived for the cats! A limited-edition autumn trading card themed around moonlight is here! A chance to win special perks, including cuddling and commemorative photos! “MOCHA Cats Trading Cards 2026 FALL ~A Moment in the Moonlight~”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
リポット株式会社 will begin selling the limited-edition autumn trading card “MOCHA Cats Trading Cards 2026 FALL ~A Moment in the Moonlight~” at all 36 cat café MOCHA locations on November 14, 2026. The cards cost 550 yen (tax included) and come with perks such as a cuddling photo session and a complimentary instant photo.
About 70% of care facilities find it “difficult” to check on residents’ safety while they use the toilet — About 75% have been unsure when to speak to residents or enter the room out of consideration for privacy
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
According to a survey conducted by 日本コムシンク株式会社 and 未知株式会社, about 70% of care facilities find it difficult to check on residents’ safety while they use the toilet, making it a challenge to balance safety checks with privacy considerations. About 70% of respondents were positive about using sensors for monitoring.
Facts
A total of 73.8% (62 responses) said they found it difficult
“Speaking to them from outside the door” received 49 responses (58.3%)
“Detection and notifications using sensors” received 18 responses (21.4%)
A total of 75.0% (63 responses) said they had been unsure
A total of 67.9% (57 responses) were positive
“Few missed detections” was the top response, with 51 responses (60.7%)
Only 33% of new products worldwide are “truly new,” down from 43% 10 years ago — In 2027, the basis of competition shifts from “products” to “outcomes”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Originalミンテルは「2027年グローバル消費者トレンド予測」を発表し、世界の新商品における「本当に新しい製品」の割合が10年前の43%から33%へ低下したと指摘。競争軸が「商品」から消費者が求める「成果」へ移行する「Products to Systems」への転換を提唱している。
Facts
33%
43%
10 points
2027
21%
54％
23％
Companies mentioned：株式会社ミンテルジャパン、ミンテル、Mintel Group、Mintel Japan
メディコムジャパン to showcase reprocessing workflows and roles at Tokyo Dental Show 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
メディコムジャパン will exhibit at “Tokyo Dental Show 2026,” which will be held at Tokyo Big Sight on November 7 and 8, 2026, showcasing reprocessing workflows and infection control products. It will also unveil a new paper cup for the first time.
株式会社コラボス × 株式会社MAYA STAFFING launch collaboration to improve call center productivity and develop product features
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社コラボス and 株式会社MAYA STAFFING have launched a collaboration to improve call center productivity and develop product features. Building on their experience using the existing AI system “VLOOM” and CRM system “GROWCE,” the companies aim to improve operational efficiency and customer experience (CX) by combining their operational expertise and technical capabilities.
Facts
Approximately 1.5 times greater outbound efficiency
Home-purchasing service 買いクル春日井・小牧店 marks 3rd anniversary — Appraisals at home for everything from furniture and appliances to hobby items
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The home-purchasing specialist 買いクル春日井・小牧店, operated by 株式会社RC, has provided in-home purchasing services in 春日井市, 小牧市, and surrounding areas since opening in October 2023, and will mark its 3rd anniversary in October 2026. It appraises a wide range of items, from furniture and appliances to hobby goods, and offers free appraisals at customers’ homes.
November 8 has been officially recognized as “Yawaraka Day.”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“Yawaraka,” a product of 株式会社梅林堂, has been officially recognized by the Japan Anniversary Association as “Yawaraka Day” on November 8. The day was established because of the phrase’s wordplay and its affinity with the culture of gratitude. A commemorative campaign is being held, along with a feature on the company’s flagship product, “Nama Sable Yawaraka Gold Plain.”
Business verification using public data and digital authentication introduced for new applications to the “Kensetsu Site Series”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
エムシーディースリー株式会社 is introducing business verification using public data and digital authentication for new applications to its “Kensetsu Site Series” cloud services for the construction industry, aiming to reduce the burden of submitting documents and shorten processing times.
Regional Shimbun launches “Chiiki no Ippin: A Tour of Japan,” a new project bringing food and stories rooted in communities across Japan
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社地域新聞社 has launched “Chiiki no Ippin: A Tour of Japan,” a new project on its online store “Chiiki no Ippin” introducing food from across Japan and the stories behind it. The first feature is an article about 日下部味噌醤油醸造株式会社 in Hida-Takayama, Gifu Prefecture.
Facts
For 42 years since its founding
Securities code: 2164
Making miso and soy sauce since Meiji 23
Provides services to about 7,000 companies annually
鈴与シンワート begins in-house provision of in-vehicle devices for the alcohol interlock feature of “AsaRepo”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
鈴与シンワート will begin providing in-house, from October 28, 2026, in-vehicle devices for the alcohol interlock feature of “AsaRepo,” its cloud service for pre-drive alcohol checks and temperature screening.
【文化服装学院】3rd cohort of the Virtual Fashion Course’s “Digital Fashion Program” gets underway. With support from GeekOut, the program promotes the development of digital fashion talent using Roblox
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
With support from GeekOut, 文化服装学院 will launch the 3rd cohort of its “Digital Fashion Program,” which develops digital fashion talent using Roblox, in October 2026. 22 students will work on creating digital fashion.
Facts
22 students
The 3rd term, which began in October 2026
More than 350,000 graduates
No. 14 in the world and No. 1 in Asia
Companies mentioned：文化服装学院、GeekOut株式会社、GeekOut、Dentsu Group
【Back again this year! All-you-can-eat Yamagata La France】LA FRANCE FESTA, featuring all-you-can-eat Yamagata La France, the nation’s top-producing variety, will be held at the lunch buffet of ANAクラウンプラザホテル成田 starting November 1 (Sunday).
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
ANAクラウンプラザホテル成田 will hold an all-you-can-eat Yamagata La France event at its lunch buffet from November 1 to December 25.
Facts
Sunday, Nov. 1
December 25 (Thursday)
￥5,000
￥5,500
Companies mentioned：CP成田株式会社、ANAクラウンプラザホテル成田、IHGホテルズ&リゾーツ、InterContinental Hotels Group PLC
First-ever location at Hakata Station: “Hakata NUMBER SHOT,” a sister restaurant of Daimyo NUMBER SHOT, featured in the 2019 Michelin Guide, to grand open at Maing Yokochō on Wednesday, Nov. 25!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Hakata NUMBER SHOT, a bar operated by 株式会社FoomanLAB, will grand open at Maing Yokochō on Nov. 25. It is a sister restaurant of Daimyo NUMBER SHOT, featured in the 2019 Michelin Guide, and will serve food and drinks that make the most of Kyushu’s food culture.
Toward a world where artists can continue their creative work with joy. IDEABLE WORKS, provider of the gallery platform “HACKK TAG,” raises approximately ¥180 million in Series A funding
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社IDEABLE WORKS provides the gallery platform “HACKK TAG” and has completed an approximately ¥180 million Series A funding round. It also plans to move its headquarters to Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, in October 2026 and hold an opening event in November of the same year.
株式会社アントワークス will launch the limited-time “Beef Skirt Steak and Pork Belly Hearty Yakiniku Bowl,” made with rare beef skirt steak and pork belly, at stores nationwide starting Oct. 30, 2026.
Facts
Starting Friday, Oct. 30, 2026
Has risen by approximately 30%
The beef skirt steak, the star ingredient, is 80 g
Uses 70 g of pork belly
Uses a total of 150 g of meat
With approximately 370 g of rice
Approximately 600 g total weight
¥1,390 including tax
182 stores nationwide (as of the end of September 2026)
【UNI COFFEE ROASTERY】 to take part in “Colors, Future! Summit 2026” and sell a limited-edition collaboration menu item featuring Kuzumochi from 川崎大師 山門前 住吉
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“UNI COFFEE ROASTERY,” operated by 株式会社GRACE, will take part in the event “Colors, Future! Summit 2026,” held in Kawasaki City on Nov. 1, 2026, and sell a collaboration menu item with 川崎大師 山門前 住吉.
“Ticket Restaurant,” which offers Mastercard payments, now available at more than 220,000 Suntory “Jihanpi”-compatible vending machines nationwide
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社エデンレッドジャパン announced that its meal subsidy service “Ticket Restaurant,” using Mastercard payments, will become available starting Oct. 28, 2026, at more than 220,000 vending machines nationwide compatible with Suntory Beverage Solution’s cashless vending machine app “Jihanpi.”
Facts
From Wednesday, Oct. 28, 2026
As of the end of September 2026
Downloads have surpassed 22 million
Adopted by more than 4,000 companies
More than 300,000 users
The number of companies newly adopting the service in 2025 grew to approximately 12.6 times the 2021 figure
Operating in 44 countries worldwide
Approximately 1 million companies have adopted the service.
60 million users
2 million participating stores
12,000 employees
Consolidated total sales for fiscal 2025: 3 billion euros
オクトパスエナジー procures renewable energy using 東北電力’s “Soramina” service
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
オクトパスエナジー has begun procuring new renewable energy sources by using 東北電力’s renewable energy matching service “Soramina” to match with power producers nationwide, excluding Okinawa Prefecture.
【Yomogidai, Meito Ward, Nagoya】24-hour fitness gym “ECOFIT24 Meito Yomogidai” to open Nov. 9｜75th location nationwide
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
エーイーシー株式会社 will open “ECOFIT24 Meito Yomogidai” in Meito Ward, Nagoya, on Nov. 9, 2026, making it the company’s 75th location nationwide. Its cumulative membership has topped 50,000.
Supports “Connecting Through Books,” a networking event in Kamigori Town, Hyogo Prefecture
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社トーハン partnered with Kamigori Town, Hyogo Prefecture, to hold “Connecting Through Books,” a networking event under a comprehensive partnership agreement, on Oct. 12, 2026.
A taste of all of Mie in a single bite. Baby castella specialty shop “カステラMARUMI” to open at VISON on Saturday, Oct. 31
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
“カステラMARUMI,” a baby castella specialty shop, will open on Oct. 31, 2026, inside VISON, a resort complex in Taki Town, Mie Prefecture. It is operated by 株式会社味国屋.
Change launches video training materials to prevent sexual harassment against job seekers and others
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Change, a subsidiary of 株式会社チェンジホールディングス, has launched a campaign offering free, limited-time access to video training materials for employees involved in recruitment, following the requirement to implement measures to prevent sexual harassment against job seekers and others, which took effect on Oct. 1, 2026.
理経 places funds in 三井住友銀行’s “Green Yen Time Deposit,” contributing to reduced environmental impact and a sustainable society through its investment activities
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社理経 has placed funds in 三井住友銀行’s “Green Yen Time Deposit.” As part of its sustainability strategy, the move aims to contribute to reducing environmental impact and realizing a sustainable society through its investment activities.
A big autumn event in lush Chikozan Park! The 12th Chikozan Waku Waku Park Festival will be held on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
The 12th Chikozan Waku Waku Park Festival will be held at Chikozan Park in Sayama City on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, 2026. It is organized by 智光山パークマネジメントJV公益財団法人埼玉県公園緑地協会. A variety of events will be held, including a community stage, food trucks and a stamp rally.
株式会社M2X, provider of next-generation cloud-based equipment maintenance, releases a case study on adoption by 三和罐詰株式会社
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社M2X has released a case study on 三和罐詰株式会社, which adopted its equipment maintenance cloud service “M2X” and centralized spare-parts inventory across 2 factories, preventing lengthy downtime caused by stockouts.
【nana's green tea】2027 lucky bags, packed with matcha-themed items and offering about 2 times their price in value, available for web reservations starting Nov. 10 (Tue)
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
nana's green tea, operated by 株式会社七葉, will sell a limited number of 2027 lucky bags themed around matcha, with web reservations opening on Nov. 10. Priced at ¥8,900, each bag contains items worth about 2.2 times the price.
DigiKey adds more than 27,000 new products and 93 suppliers to its in-stock product lineup in the third quarter of 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
DigiKey added more than 27,000 new products and 93 suppliers to its in-stock product lineup in the third quarter of 2026, bringing the cumulative total of new products listed on its website to 507,000. It also announced plans to invest $100 million over the next 18 months to expand its global distribution operations.
Facts
The total has reached 507,000
Plans to invest $100 million
Over the next 18 months
1 million customers annually
More than 1.9 million products
Leading products from more than 3,000 manufacturers
【More than 300 companies have inquired within 1 month of launch!】Monthly-fee-free LINE messaging tool “Lフリー” meets small and midsize businesses’ needs for LINE operations with unlimited messaging and no additional charges
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Lフリー, a monthly-fee-free LINE messaging tool provided by 株式会社SVC, received inquiries from more than 300 companies in total within about 1 month of launching in September 2026.
Among people who sleep with dogs or cats in winter, 71.7% find it “hard to turn over.” Of those, 89.0% say they “feel happy when their pets snuggle up,” revealing a “happy dilemma” in the bedroom
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
According to a survey conducted by 株式会社Morght, operator of the sleep brand NELL, 71.7% of people who sleep with dogs or cats in winter find it “hard to turn over.” However, 89.0% say they “feel happy when their pets snuggle up,” highlighting the challenge of making room to turn over through thoughtful bedding choices.
“Tourism and Community Development Seminar” project presentation to be held!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
愛知県 will hold a project presentation for its “Tourism and Community Development Seminar” on Nov. 7, 2026, with the aims of realizing sustainable tourism and developing talent. After presentations by 15 groups, 2 outstanding projects will be selected, with the goal of commercializing them through “旅ろっ！愛知.”
Peace cannot be achieved simply by “protecting” it—なかよし学園’s Rie Nakamura presents the “CHOICE Education Model” internationally at Windsor城 in the UK
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Rie Nakamura, secretary-general of 特定非営利活動法人なかよし学園プロジェクト, presented the “CHOICE Education Model” internationally at the “ICCC Windsor Consultation” held at Windsor城 in the UK, advocating an approach to peacebuilding and education that emphasizes choice and agency as well as protection.
Facts
Oct. 26–28, 2026
More than 50 schools nationwide
On a scale of 10,000 people
12th JACEイベントアワード
October 2026
FY2026
September 2026
Fiscal 2025
39th ACUNS Annual Meeting
July 2026
Companies mentioned：特定非営利活動法人なかよし学園プロジェクト、なかよし学園、ICCC、International Council for Caring Communities、国連経済社会理事会、ECOSOC、St. George’s House、Windsor城、JACEイベントアワード、EXPO FUTURES AWARD 2026、ACUNS
First at Lake Biwa Museum: original cards made with visitors’ own photos | “Memory Card Project®” exhibits at Biwako Museum Festival 2026
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社PKBソリューション will exhibit its “Memory Card Project®” for the first time at “Biwako Museum Festival 2026,” held at the Shiga Prefectural Lake Biwa Museum, and issue original cards free of charge using photos from visitors’ smartphones.
【2026 Christmas】The theme is “Cheers to Christmas!” Yokohama chocolate shop VANILLABEANS opens reservations on Nov. 1 for new cakes inspired by tiramisu and more
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Yokohama chocolate shop VANILLABEANS, operated by チョコレートデザイン株式会社, will begin taking reservations on Nov. 1 for its 2026 Christmas cakes, including a new cake inspired by tiramisu and classic favorites, under the theme “Cheers to Christmas!”
Facts
Reservations for Christmas cakes will open at physical stores and the online shop on Nov. 1 (Sun)
Rare “Arriba cacao” from Ecuador, which accounts for only about 2% of global cacao production
Price: ¥6,264 (tax included)
Price: ¥5,832 (tax included)
Price: ¥5,724 (tax included)
Price: ¥3,078 (tax included)
Price: ¥1,375 (tax included)
Originalクリスマスケーキ1台につき1ドルを
providing a total of approximately 16,000 cacao saplings
“Recommended companies” versus “companies that won’t let you down”: do AI recommendations change? GEORank compares and tests
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
A study using GEORank, operated by シースリーレーヴ株式会社, queried AI about website production companies in Tokyo using two different prompts: “recommended companies” and “companies that won’t let you down.” The results showed that recommendations and sources varied, with differences arising not only from rephrasing but also across repeated responses.
High-protein “wellness bread” YOUR BREAD surpasses 500,000 servings sold cumulatively
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社YOUR MEAL announced that cumulative sales of its high-protein, long-life bread YOUR BREAD surpassed 500,000 servings in October 2026. It will also join 朝たんぱく協会 as a supporting member and hold a commemorative campaign.
Facts
Cumulative sales surpassed 500,000 servings in October 2026
Short video explaining the system released for employees of organizations that have adopted the “Hagukumi Corporate Pension”
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社ベター・プレイス has released a short video for employees of organizations that have adopted the “Hagukumi Corporate Pension,” explaining the system in about 3 and a half minutes. The video aims to address challenges faced by on-site workers who have difficulty attending information sessions, such as those working shifts, and can be viewed on a smartphone without logging in.
『A Train on a Certain Star』 wins the grand prize at the 7th “TSUTAYA Picture Book Awards”!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
カルチュア・エクスペリエンス株式会社 announced that 『A Train on a Certain Star』 (福音館書店) has been selected for the grand prize at the 7th “TSUTAYA Picture Book Awards.” The winning book will be featured in promotions at TSUTAYA and 蔦屋書店 stores nationwide starting Nov. 1.
Starring Keisuke Koide! BUMP’s hugely popular original short drama, whose revenue surpassed 100 million yen, returns for its eagerly awaited 3rd season: 『Earn 30 Million! – Yakuza Feud Arc –』 begins exclusive streaming on Wed., Oct. 28 at 19:00
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
emole株式会社 announced that the latest installment in the BUMP original short drama series 『Earn 30 Million!』, whose revenue surpassed 100 million yen following its release in April 2026, will begin exclusive streaming at 19:00 on Oct. 28, 2026. Season 3, 『Earn 30 Million! – Yakuza Feud Arc –』, stars Keisuke Koide and depicts a yakuza conflict set in a host club in Kabukicho.
Katsuyuki Motohiro, director of 『Bayside Shakedown』, appears as the first guest! New program “So, who actually makes this?” launches, with Shintaro Morimoto exploring the stories behind hit works
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社アトラエ will launch the new program “So, who actually makes this?” on the YouTube channel “Kaishainzu” starting Oct. 28. Film director Katsuyuki Motohiro will appear as the first guest, discussing behind-the-scenes stories from 『Bayside Shakedown』 and his philosophy of team-building.
Macbee Planet establishes dedicated team for global companies expanding their businesses in Japan
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社Macbee Planet has established a dedicated team to provide performance-based LTV marketing for global companies seeking to strengthen their business operations in the Japanese market amid an increase in direct investment in Japan.
Facts
About 60% of foreign-affiliated companies based in Japan
Direct investment in Japan outstanding balance targeted for 2030
Target of 120 trillion yen in direct investment in Japan outstanding balance by 2030
Over 40% cite “varying knowledge levels” as a challenge in partner education — Survey of 303 administrators of partner programs
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社シェアウィズ surveyed 303 administrators of partner programs and found that the biggest challenge in partner education is “varying knowledge levels.” The survey also features a case study from 株式会社マネーフォワード.
From “using” AI to “achieving results.” W２ holds company-wide contest to strengthen AI implementation capabilities.
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
W２株式会社 held the “W2 Group AI Boost Contests” to strengthen AI implementation capabilities across the company, sharing 32 examples of AI use across 5 areas, including development, operations, and design. Results included a 95% reduction in implementation workload, and the company aims to improve business processes and enhance customer value by sharing insights across the organization.
Is your guest futon, used only a few times a year, taking up storage space? The compact “Nebukuron AW Premium” is back on sale—spacious when in use, compact when stored
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
Bears Rock株式会社 is bringing back the compact “Nebukuron AW Premium,” drawing on its expertise as a sleeping bag manufacturer to solve the problem of storing guest futons.
【MYTREX】First crowdfunding campaign! “MYTREX ZONE Pillow,” a pillow that supports sleep with sound, launches early on Makuake from 10/31
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
株式会社創通メディカル announced that its “MYTREX ZONE Pillow,” a pillow that supports sleep with sound, will launch early on the crowdfunding platform “Makuake” starting Oct. 31, 2026. The price is 33,000 yen (tax included).
Learn hands-on functional assessment and exercise instruction for neck and shoulder problems: STAR Pilates to hold specialist workshop led by Korean instructor ByungGwan Yun on Dec. 6 in Fukuoka
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
STAR Pilates, operated by ＳＤエンターテイメント株式会社, will hold a specialist workshop on functional assessment and exercise instruction for neck and shoulder problems, led by Korean instructor ByungGwan Yun, in Fukuoka on Dec. 6, 2026.
The ever-popular Coffee Cream Bun and the revived bread 「アンドレ」, first introduced in 1993, arrive! Fall new and revived products go on sale starting Sunday, November 1!
Published ・ Source Japan | PR TIMES
クックハウス, operated by 株式会社ダイヤ, is holding an autumn campaign and launched 7 new products, including the Coffee Cream Bun and revived product 「アンドレ」, on November 1, 2026.
Facts
Celebrating its 80th anniversary this year
From Sunday, Nov. 1, 2026
Was sold around 1993
7 new products in total
For every 200 yen spent (tax included)
An annual tradition continuing for more than 40 years