Supporting Employment Opportunities for the Disadvantaged: Palline's New Initiative

In a commendable step towards creating an inclusive society, Palline Co., Ltd., which oversees logistics for the Palsystem group, has recently obtained certification for its employment training program aimed at helping economically disadvantaged individuals. This initiative includes three logistics centers dedicated to sorting products for home delivery, primarily located in Kumagaya (Saitama Prefecture) and two centers in Hachioji (Tokyo). By collaborating with local authorities, Palline is providing opportunities for individuals facing various barriers to employment while closely supporting them in overcoming their challenges.

Creating Job Opportunities Through Sorting Operations

The newly certified centers offer tailored work opportunities grounded in the Employment Support for the Disadvantaged Act. The program is designed for individuals who find it difficult to start working immediately by considering their individual circumstances, including work hours and duties. There are two formats available: a non-employment type, where individuals can gain work experience without a formal contract, and an employment type for those ready for more structured roles. Palline is beginning with the non-employment type.

In this non-employment model, special consideration is given to those struggling with health and stability challenges. Participants can decide their working days and hours after discussing their preferences, allowing for flexibility in case of last-minute absences or late arrivals. Such an adaptable work environment ensures that participants can comfortably manage their tasks at a sustainable pace.

The sorting tasks at the center start with incoming goods and include replenishing product lines, sorting, and stacking boxes. This division of tasks allows for a smooth integration of the work process and enables trainees to focus on tasks that match their abilities, accommodating sudden absences as part of the overall support structure.

Package sealing work

Prioritizing Health Management and Communication

Individuals interested in the non-employment model are accepted through partnerships with local government bodies, worker cooperatives, and counseling organizations. These collaborations help Palline understand each person's situation and challenges. Regular consultations with these organizations enable Palline to discover the mental and physical health states, personality traits, and communication styles of each participant, ensuring a comfortable working atmosphere through the use of checklists and other tools.

Once a participant expresses interest in continuing work, they can transition into the employment type under a formal contract. Furthermore, opportunities for joining the general workforce in the future are also available. Palline is dedicated to ensuring a seamless transition into regular employment by utilizing insights and experiences gained during training to adapt their support methods.

Fostering an Understanding Workplace

Since 2017, Palline has been actively hiring individuals who have been long-term unemployed due to circumstances like social withdrawal. Currently, 40 individuals are thriving in this environment. In 2020, the company also aimed to enhance understanding and acceptance of people with disabilities by distributing guidelines to all employees, fostering an inclusive work culture through training sessions and proactive hiring.

To further support employee retention, Palline has positioned specialized workplace adaptation facilitators, known as 'Job Coaches,' across all twelve business locations. Over 220 employees have also obtained the in-house certification of 'Job Supporter,' symbolized by armbands and badges indicating their commitment to fostering a work environment where everyone can feel safe and supported.

Currently, 79 individuals with disabilities are thriving within the company as part of the sorting and cataloging operations, supported by a comprehensive assistance framework that includes over 3,400 employees.

Badge showcasing support for people with disabilities

Looking to the Future

As 2025 marks the International Year of Cooperatives, Palline is committed to cultivating a community where individuals from diverse backgrounds can understand one another, and everyone can flourish. With ongoing efforts, the company aims to continue championing inclusive initiatives that empower all its members.