#Japan #Osaka #Monotype #JR West #Seitaro Design

Upcoming Seminar: Brand Talks

Monotype Inc., based in Tokyo, is thrilled to announce its first-ever seminar in Japan titled "Brand Talks." Slated for June 25, 2025, this hybrid event will focus on elevating corporate branding and creative strategies. This seminar will be held at the AP Innogate Osaka, located directly connected to JR Osaka Station.

Drawing on a series of insightful events held globally in places like the US, Paris, and London, this seminar will delve into branding and typography, inviting experts from various industries to share their knowledge. With the significance of typography being a core theme, attendees will learn how effective strategies can enhance brand appeal.

Guest Speakers: JR West and Seitaro Design

Leading the discussions will be two notable figures: Shuji Uchida from West Japan Railway Company (JR West) and Harutaro Yamazaki from Seitaro Design. Uchida, who heads Digital Solutions at JR West, recently oversaw the launch of the new payment service titled "Wesmo!"

In the first half of the seminar, Uchida will discuss why JR West decided to revamp its branding strategy for the regional brand "WESTER" and the circumstances surrounding Wesmo! entering the market. This will provide attendees with a rich understanding of the strategic planning behind successful branding in a competitive environment.

The Role of Typography

In the latter half of the event, Yamazaki will reveal the development process of the original font "WESTERX Sans," created in collaboration with Monotype for Wesmo! He will explain how brand identity is incorporated into font design, demonstrating with examples how typography influences branding. The session will be moderated by Ryota Doi, Senior Type Designer and APAC Team Lead at Monotype, ensuring a smooth and engaging discussion.

To conclude the seminar, a networking session will be available, providing an opportunity for speakers and participants to exchange ideas and insights.

Event Details:

• - Event Name: Brand Talks
• - Date: June 25, 2025
• - Venue: AP Innogate Osaka, directly accessible from JR Osaka Station
• - Address: 3-2-123 Umeda, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0001, Japan
• - Participation Fee: Free (including the networking session)
• - Venue Capacity: 70 participants
• - Live Stream Capacity: 200 participants
• - Live Stream Access: URL will be sent via email after registration
• - Organized by: Monotype

Registration Information

• - Registration URL: Monotype Seminar Registration
• - Registration Deadline: June 23, 2025, at 12:00 PM (noon)

Please note that registration may close upon reaching capacity. Attendees who join in-person are requested to bring their business cards.

We're unable to accommodate changes or cancellations after registration is completed, so please consider this before signing up. On the day of the event, we kindly ask attendees to participate using the Peatix app for ticket check-in.

Key Schedule:

• - 3:00 PM: Doors Open and Registration
• - 3:30 PM: Opening Remarks

- Topic 1: JR West's Strategy: The Rebranding of the WESTER Brand and the Entry of Wesmo!
- Topic 2: Brand Identity Expressed Through WESTERX Sans

• - 5:00 PM: Networking Session
• - 6:30 PM: Conclusion

Speaker Profiles

Shuji Uchida

• - Position: Deputy Director, Digital Solutions Headquarters, WESTER-X Business Unit, JR West

Uchida has been with JR West since 2002, progressing through various roles including station staff and project management. He has been pivotal in launching initiatives that drive digital strategy and enhance customer connection through applications.

Harutaro Yamazaki

• - Position: Creative Director, Seitaro Design

Yamazaki leads Seitaro Design, specializing in branding and design across various mediums. He has been involved in numerous award-winning projects, such as the Tokyo 2020 awards ceremony. His contributions to branding extend beyond design, as he also appears as a commentator in media.

Contact Information

For inquiries about this press release, please contact:
Monotype Inc.
Phone: 03-5786-0656
Email: contactmtj@monotype.com
Contact Person: Amashita

About Monotype

Monotype is a leading company that enhances brand representation and engagement through typefaces, technology, and expertise. We provide services that create aesthetic appeal, reliability, and impactful branding through design resources and font technology. For more details, visit Monotype Official Website.

This event marks a significant opportunity for professionals interested in fortifying their branding strategies. Don't miss the chance to gain insights and network with industry experts.